Vicki Shirek, née Wachowiak, 57

Vicki Shirek, née Wachowiak, a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away on Aug. 9, 2024, at the age of 57, after a courageous battle with alcoholism.

Born on May 5, 1967, Vicki lived a life full of creativity and deep love for her family. A 1985 graduate of Stevens Point Area Senior High (SPASH), she excelled in cross country and track. In 1984, her 4×400-meter relay team won the state title.

Vicki’s passion for the arts led her to attend the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and Mankato State University before graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a degree in art education. She enjoyed a fulfilling career as an art teacher at Ben Franklin Junior High School, where she inspired many young minds with her creativity, caring nature, and love for art.

Known for her incredible storytelling, Vicki spread joy and laughter with her animated recounting of events. Her wonderful sense of humor and kind-heartedness touched many lives. Her artistic soul was evident in her paintings, creative artwork, and photography. Vicki had a giving heart—whether it was a smile, a helping hand, the perfect gift, or a drawer of special snacks, she always sought to bless those around her. She found joy in gardening, spending time with her family, and was deeply involved in her local AA group and the humane society.

Vicki married her high school sweetheart, Randy Shirek, and together they raised three sons: Anthony (Jayme Tobalsky), Jordan (Ellen Slezak), and Spencer. Though they later divorced, they remained united in their love for their family. Vicki’s six grandchildren—Cora, Brooke, Morgan, Jackson, Thomas, and Franklin—were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her parents, David and Lavonne Wachowiak, and her siblings, Sheree Thomas (Scott), Molly Johnson (Doug), Mary Kenas, and Matt Wachowiak (Lynda), as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Kurt Kenas, and her granddaughter, Amber.

Vicki will be remembered as a beautiful, funny, optimistic, and creative person. She is now at peace and no longer suffering, but her absence will leave a lasting void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A celebration of Vicki’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, at Woodlands Church, 190 Hoover Avenue, Plover, with Pastor David Hansen officiating. Visitation will be held at Woodlands Church on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, from 4-6 p.m., and will continue Monday morning from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Pisarski Funeral Homes is honored to be serving the family. Online condolences may be offered at www.pisarskifuneralhome.com.