Raymond F. Piechota, 96, of Krakow, passed away Monday, August 31, 2026, at his home. The son of John and Mary (Kolak) Piechota was born on May 3, 1930, in Kewaunee, WI.

Ray graduated from Central Catholic High School with the class of 1948. Following high school, he enlisted in the US Air Force and proudly served until his honorable discharge in 1952.

Ray worked as an auto mechanic throughout his entire working career. He spent many years working at Woosencraft Chevrolet and Broadway Automotive. Even into his 90s, Ray could still be found changing oil and performing auto maintenance, doing what he loved.

In 1969, Ray became a member of Assumption B.V.M. Parish in Pulaski. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus. Ray enjoyed gardening, reading, and spending time with his dogs, Peppy and Buddy. Above all, Ray kept his faith at the center of his life.

Survivors include his children: Ray (Lisa) Piechota, Terry Guenther, Tom Piechota (Paul), Jan Piechota (Gary Linders), Tim Piechota, Bob (Lisa) Piechota, Jackie (Dean) Poels, Tony Piechota (Jeff), and Mike (Sheri) Piechota; grandchildren: Tamara (Shane) Loch, Julia Piechota, Steven Piechota, Christina Piechota, Kelli (John) Connors, Scott Guenther (Tonya), Vicki Piechota, Jeremy Piechota (Kortney), Josh Piechota (Tatianna), Billie Jean Hager (fiancé, Keith), Joshua (Allison) Hager, and Tamara (Nick) Dolata. He is further survived by 17 great-grandchildren; one great great-granddaughter; his significant other, Barb Christensen.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the mother of his children: Doris Piechota; two sons: Jim and Jeff Piechota; infant granddaughter, Maryann; siblings: Anna Wedyck, Frank Piechota, Rose Gruetzmacher, John “Jack” Piechota, Henry Piechota, Mary “Peggy” Wypiszinski, and Elizabeth “Betty” Kroll; and a son-in-law, Bob Guenther.

Friends are invited to gather with family at Assumption B.V.M. Church, 119 E. Pulaski St., Pulaski, on Friday, September 4, from 9-11 a.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with Fr. Edward Tlucek, O.F.M. presiding. Military honors rendered by the Pulaski Area Veterans will follow at the church. Burial will take place in the parish cemetery.

The Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on the parish Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Assumption-BVM-St-Stanislaus-St-Casimir-Parish-Family-89119956934

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to family members: Jackie, Bob, and Barb for taking Ray to appointments and being there to help whenever needed. They would also like to express their sincere appreciation to the Unity Hospice team for the compassionate care, comfort, and support they provided to Ray and his family.

Online condolences may be offered to the Piechota family at www.marnochafuneralhome.com or on the Marnocha Funeral Home Facebook page.