Colleen Marie Draganowski, age 75, of Rice Lake, WI, died Thursday, January 9, 2025 surrounded by her family at her home after a brief illness.

She was born on June 7, 1949 in St. Paul, MN to Robert and Dorothy (Gazda) Birkenmeier. Colleen graduated from Rice Lake High School in 1967 and was married to Gerald “Jerry” Draganowski on August 31, 1968 in Rice Lake. They owned and operated Drag’s Restaurant in Rice Lake and the Enchanted Inn in Barnes, WI for many years. She loved gardening, decorating, making ceramics, collecting bears, driving her convertibles and watching the Green Bay Packers. Colleen enjoyed spending time up at the lake enjoying pontoon rides, relaxing, having a fun drink and a good campfire. She enjoyed her cruise ship vacations with her family and friends. Colleen’s family was the most important part of her life, especially the great grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, James (Stacey) Draganowski and Stacie (Jason) Fostvedt; 5 grandchildren Nicholas (Erin), Derek (Gilly), Kaitlin (Jake), Nate and Meghan; 4 great grandchildren, Brantley, Brynn, Walker and Waylon; 2 brothers, Gary (Sharon) Birkenmeier and Loren (Kris) Birkenmeier; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald “Jerry” Draganowski; her parents, Robert and Dorothy Birkenmeier; and a brother, Gregory Birkenmeier.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Noon Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake, Father Isaiah Schick officiating. Visitation will be held from 10AM-Noon Wednesday prior to the Funeral Service at the church. Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake is serving and assisting the family with the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake.

Last Update: Jan 10, 2025 1:15 pm CST