Leland E. "Lee" Rackow

Age 86 of Monroe, died on Friday, March 22, 2013 at Monroe Clinic Hospital. Lee was born November 19, 1926 near Winslow, IL, the son of the late Lester and Mabel (Smith) Rackow. In 1950 he married Norma Christen (deceased) of Monticello, WI. Lee and Norma had three children, Nancy (Gregory) Wisniewski of Verona, Ruth (Randy) Myatt, and Larry Rackow, both of Janesville. He is further survived by two grandsons, Christopher and Matthew Wisniewski; his siblings, Marian Rufer, Elwin (Verla) Rackow, Robert (Sonja) Rackow, Margaret Marquis, Betty Rackow, and Duane Rackow; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Christen; his nieces, nephews, Godchildren, and a special friend, Barb Wardlow. He was preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Annette Rackow; and brothers-in-law, Lloyd Rufer, Phillip Marquis, and Wilbert Christen. Lee farmed in Spring Grove Township for 22 years, owned Rackow Repair Service in Winslow until 1987, and most recently did carpentry and maintenance work for the Monroe School District until 2003. Following his "retirement", Lee remained active fixing lawn mowers, snow blowers, and helping others with remodeling projects. He enjoyed watching westerns, visiting with friends and family, and tinkering on one of his many projects. He was always building or fixing something.

To honor his wishes, a private family memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to a charity of one's choice in Lee's honor. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe, is assisting the family.