Leon E. Rauska

Leon Earl Rauska, age 74, of Princeton, passed away on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at home surrounded by friends. Leon was born on October 11, 1950, in Milwaukee, WI, the only child of Toivo and Frances (Potisk) Rauska.

Leon proudly served his country as a member of the Marine Reserve 96 Rifle Company, Milwaukee, of which he received numerous honors for marksmanship. He married Charlene Mary Kohnke on July 6, 1979. They had over 43 great years together before her passing on January 13, 2023.

For over 32 ½ years, Leon worked for the AO Smith Company in Milwaukee as a finish products fork truck driver. Upon retirement, Leon moved to Princeton with Charlene and his mother, Frances. He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, all shooting sports, and dog training. When he was not outdoors, he enjoyed collecting knives and watching old westerns.

Leon is survived by his loving yellow labrador retriever, Goldie; 2 felines, AJ and Sallie Mae; his grandson, Eli Janos of Milwaukee; dear friends, Jeff and Debbie Thoms, Irene (Tex) Perelli, Shane and Chasity Weir; his renters, Seth Hansen, Kala Maser and her daughter, Katherine; his fellow dog father, Mark Judas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Toivo and Frances Rauska; his loving wife, Charlene.  

Leon’s last wish was to get a blue Spiderman bike for his little buddy, Katherine. The bike was delivered to her the afternoon he passed.

A big thank you goes out to all that assisted in getting Leon’s house in order so that he could have his last days at home.

In honoring Leon’s wishes, he will be cremated and there will be no service. Please visit our website www.wachholzandsons.com to send condolences to his surviving family and friends.

Wachholz and Sons Funeral Home

Sunset Cremation Center in Princeton

Serving the Family, 920-295-6631

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