In loving memory of

James Gnacinski
August 20, 1953 - January 11, 2009

James Pollock. Gnacinski, of Antigo, died Sunday, January 11, 2009 in Aspirus Wausau Hospital as the result of a battle with Leukemia. He was 55years old

He was born August 20, 1953 in West Bend, son of Jeanette (Harns) Gnacinski of Antigo and the late Mike Gnacinski.

He married Patricia Andres on March 19, 1983 at Antigo. She survives. He was also married to Ethel (Tomlin) Gnacinski, who he later divorced.

Mr. Gnacinski was raised in Kewaskum and graduated in 1971 from Kewaskum Community High School. He is also a graduate of Moraine Park Technical Institute, West Bend in 1972 with a degree in Auto Body Repair.
In June of 1972, he moved to Antigo to assist his parents operate a tavern south of Antigo and began his career at the ford garage where he worked on and off for 25 years. In 1977 he started selling cars and trucks, which took him to dealerships in Merrill, Rhinelander, and Minocqua. In Minocqua he was instrumental in setting up Dave Marston Motors in the Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep franchise.
He was an Eagle Scout and a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow. He is a past member of the Antigo Area Jaycees where he was chapter president and served two terms as District Director for Region 15 of the Wisconsin Jaycees. He also is a retired volunteer firefighter and first responder for the Town of Elcho where he was assistant chief for five years. He also was a member of the Langlade County Rural Fire Control for 20 years.
In 1992 he joined the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Antigo Lodge 662 and began his career as an Elk as Inner Guard. He progressed through the chairs and became Exalted Ruler in 2003 and 2006. He was chairman for the soccer shoot-out and was involved in many of the lodge projects. He was awarded Elk of the Year in 2007. In 2008 he was installed as District Deputy to the Grand Exalted Ruler, the post he currently holds.

Surviving in addition to his wife and mother are 2 daughters, Jeri Nicholson Antigo, Bridget (Nick) Lykins Crandon; son, Michael Gnacinski Pearson; sister, Linda Gage New Berlin, his grand puppy Nala, and he is also survived by 3sisters in laws, Mary Jo Andres, Antigo, Joni (Andy) Sensenbrenner, Deerbrook, Kathy (Larry) Boksa, Arkansas, and brother in law Tom (Peg) Andres, Antigo. He is also survived by other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and an infant brother Michael

An Elks Lodge of Sorrow will be held at Bradley Funeral Home, Saturday, January 17, 2009 at Noon with funeral services following. Rev. Omer Kelley will officiate. Celebration of his life to follow services at the Antigo Elks Lodge.

Visitation will be Saturday, January 17 from 10 am to time of services at the funeral home

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the Elks National Foundation. Online condolences may be made to www.bradleyfh.com.

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