Albert C. Kawalek died on April 26, 2023 at the age of 98 in Ocala, Florida. He was born on January 4, 1925 to Fred and Clara (Eckert) Kawalek in Merrill, Wisconsin. He moved to Antigo, WI and graduated from Antigo High School. Al served in the Army from 1946-1947, spending several months in Japan after its
bombing. In 1948, he married Donna Keen in Antigo, WI. They had two children, Brion and Jane.
Albert worked for the Chicago Northwestern Railroad. He began as a helper sweeping the floors in Antigo, moved up to a machinist apprentice, became a machinist and then as a supervisor for 37 years. He continued his career in Green Bay and became Assistant Master Mechanic. Later Al was content to be the supervisor of the roundhouse in Green Bay so he did not have to be on the road all the time. After 43 years of service to the company, he retired in January of 1987 and moved to Davenport, Florida. Al loved working for the railroad and enjoyed telling stories about his experiences on the job.
After the death of his wife Donna, Al met Carol Franz in Ocala, Florida. They were married in 2013. Carol took great care of Al after he suffered a stroke in 2019 until his passing.
Albert was preceded in death by his parents, brother Frank Kawalek, sister Ann (Ed) Wolf, sister Clara Micheau, his first wife Donna (Keen), and son Brion Kawalek.
Al is survived by his wife Carol Franz, daughter Jane (Tom) Gilson of Eau Claire,WI; grandson Scott Gilson of Golden Valley, MN; grandson Matthew (Jenna Selzler) Gilson of Gilbert, AZ; granddaughter Sarah (J. Ryan) Gilbert of Eau Claire, WI; great granddaughter Madison Gilson, great grandson, David Gilbert, and great grandson Peter Gilbert. Al was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. Arrangements entrusted to Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 5740 S. Pine Ave., Ocala, FL 34480.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestLawnOcala.com for the Kawalek family.
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