Gregory A. Szpak

Born on October 21, 1951 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Greg Szpak grew up in South Milwaukee and was a true south sider attending Pio Nono High with a passion for music, athletics, family and religious faith.

Greg was the Loving Husband of Kathy and was just shy of celebrating 50 wonderful years of marriage. Proud Father of three sons, Steve (Judy), Jason (Kaitlyn) and Joe (Jessica). Grandparent of Sareli, Jaylee, Ellesyn, and Scarlett to which he was better known as “Pops”. Greg was proceeded in death by his parents George and Ruth Szpak and his sister Elaine (Brian) Yee. He is further survived by his sister Denise (Neil) Karolek.

Greg attended UWM, where he met the love of life Kathy, who was impressed with his ability to ace classes while not purchasing any of the textbooks. Following his completion of the Master’s program in Social Work at UWM, Greg founded the Alzheimer’s Association of Wisconsin and served as President of the organization all on a volunteer basis.

As a social worker, he cared deeply for others using a common sense and compassionate approach with a personal touch. He dedicated his career to helping people with disabilities, victims and the elderly, where he was instrumental in establishing Alzheimer’s care programs. During his time as an Administrator at Clement Manor, you could find him on holidays serving food and entertaining the residents and their families with his musical talents.

Greg was a gifted musician who played multiple instruments and specialized in the guitar, always looking the part with his distinctive signature long curly hair. He played in various rock ‘n roll bands in his younger years and performed in all three of his sons’ weddings.

Greg drove the road of life in a convertible, feeling the wind blow against his hair. When life knocked Greg down, he quickly and quietly got up, dusted himself off, trusted in God and always moved forward to his next adventure.

Greg loved America’s pastime, baseball, and continued playing in multiple softball leagues despite more health challenges than one could comprehend. He valued the camaraderie of the team and left nothing on the field. After a home run, he would celebrate with an ice cream treat at the local A&W or Dairy Queen. His other interests included spending time with family and friends, outdoor activities, vacationing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, chasing the elusive musky, bike rides, and a game of Scrabble.

Even though Greg was dealt a tough hand in life he always stepped up to the plate and hit it out of the park to help others. He was a man of strong character and followed through on his words. On his 15th wedding anniversary, he promised one day to take Kathy on a trip to Hawaii, which he made a reality 30 years later.

After knowing his time on Earth would be limited with pancreatic cancer, Greg’s final wish was to be a “Heavenly Guy who does good for those in need.” Greg Szpak was a true All-Star that will be deeply missed.

On October 8th, 2024, God called and waived Greg into home. May he rest in peace within the Kingdom of God.

In honor and memory of Greg Szpak, donations may be made to the Ozaukee County Senior Softball League and the School Sisters of St. Francis.