David Joseph Swiecichowski

David passed away peacefully at Bellin Hospital in Green Bay, Tuesday, April 13, 2021.

David was born in Green Bay on November 4, 1939 to John and Helen (Hackl) Swiecichowski. He was a graduate of Pulaski High School and joined the Army in 1957. He served at Fort Leonard Wood, MO. and 6 years in the reserves. He then married Dorothy Ulmen and had four children. He was a proud member of the United SteelWorkers of America and worked as a leadman at American National Can from 1960-1993. He worked as a custodian for a few years and then retired to enjoy the good life.

He is survived by four children: Angie (Bryan) Hillsberg, Tom (Linda) Swiecichowski, Karen (Scott) Zelhofer and Susie (Karl) Kramer. Six grandchildren: Dawn (Shawn) Crilly, Alex Zelhofer, Brooke Hillsberg, Courtney (Nate Dantoin) Zelhofer, Rylee Kramer and Abby Kramer. One very special great grandson: Blake Crilly. Sister: Virginia Elsen. His special friend of 27 years Erma Chandler and family. Many nieces and nephews, other relatives, friends and beloved grand pets. David was preceded in death by his parents John and Helen (Hackl) Swiecichowski, sister and brother in law Ramona and Ron Mott, sister Mary Lou Swiecichowski and brother in law Joe Elsen.

Dave aka “Swede” enjoyed the simple things in life. He was one of the most laid back guys you could ever meet. Loved to cut the grass and garden, fish and deer hunt. Big fan of Wisconsin sports. You knew not to call when a game was on! Dave and Erma spent their time together going to casinos, garage saling, watching Packer games and spending time with their family and friends. Our Dad liked to go up north with his buddies to go “fishing” but had more fun at the land than anything. With his best friend, Gary Suski they enjoyed many years going back and forth between cabins and raising heck! His sister Jenny was his biggest cheerleader and they loved and encouraged each other throughout their lives. He was very passionate about his sweets! Peanut Squares are what comes to mind. He loved backyard BBQ’s with all the grandkids running around. It became a tradition to get together to celebrate Halloween and his birthday with pumpkins from his garden and a big ole pot of chili. Family was everything to our Dad, he often said he didn’t know what he did to deserve such loving children and grandkids. He was so fortunate to be part of the four generation club with his great grandson Blake. Dad’s face would light up a room when he would see him or tell a story about the latest Kit Kat wrapper.

The last few years our Dad had suffered many medical issues and we called ourselves “Team Grunt” as his nickname was Grandpa Grunt. We vowed to keep him home and safe as long as we could. We prevailed many times. This stubborn Polish man had 9 lives. He did get his wish to live at home.

Special thank you to Patrick, Dad loved the yard work you did and you lifted his spirits every time.

Dad-Grandpa Grunt, may you rest in peace. We hope you're having a beer and dancing a jig to your favorite polka band. Love you always and forever in our hearts. We miss you already.

Our family would like to thank Bellin Home Health Care nurses that came every week to help keep him happy and healthy at home. He looked forward to their visits. A big shout out to the staff at Bellin Hospital, especially the ICU nurses and staff, too many to name. The compassion and care he received was very much appreciated and the kindness you showed us was amazing.

Due to covid we will be having a funeral and celebration of his life at a later date.