Gregory Paul Birkenmeier, age 74, of Rice Lake, WI, died December 27, 2024 in Rice Lake.

He was born on June 12, 1950 in St. Paul, MN to Robert and Dorothy (Gazda) Birkenmeier. Greg graduated from Rice Lake High School in 1968. He was married to Julie Carlson in 1974 and they later divorced. Greg then found new love in Sharon “Sherry” Shipman and they enjoyed over 16 years together. Greg managed Mr. Bob’s bar in Rice Lake, owned and operated his own bar for a short time, helped out his dad at Ackley Novelty, was a salesman for a pizza distribution, sold greeting cards, delivered bread and potato chips, was a facilities manager for Heart Island and also worked for WalMart in the pharmacy and electronics. He had a great personality, enjoyed humor where he could make anyone laugh and have a good conversation. Greg was fun loving, took pride in his pristine yard/house and enjoyed traveling to many places.

He is survived by his 4 sons, Paul (Sarah) Birkenmeier, Jeff Birkenmeier, Troy (Dorothy) Birkenmeier and Kyle Birkenmeier; 5 grandchildren, Jack, Ivan, Hans, Bear and Petra; his significant other and her family, Sharon “Sherry” Shipman; her 2 sons, Michael (Angie) Shipman and Tom (Mechele) Shipman; her 3 grandchildren, Bethani, Jenna and Donald; her 7 great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Gary (Sharon) Birkenmeier and Loren (Kris) Birkenmeier; a sister, Colleen Draganowski; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Dorothy Birkenmeier; and his brother-in-law, Jerry Draganowski; A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM Saturday, January 4, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake, Father Adam Laski officiating.

Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the Funeral Service at the Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to St. Joseph Catholic School in Rice Lake.

Last Update: Dec 31, 2024 1:14 pm CST