Ralph Rutkowski of Shantytown passed away at Cardinal Grove in Whiting on May 14, 2026, under the care of hospice.

Ralph was born in Shantytown on September 21, 1938, on the Bentley homestead to Nick and Iva (Bentley) Rutkowski.

He went to Countyline School and graduated from Rosholt High School in 1957, and attended UW Stevens Point.

He worked on the family farm, bused kids to Wausau, and was a Postal Carrier for Stevens Point Post Office.

Ralph loved feeding deer, birds, and his cats. He was an avid reader and spent most of his life doing what he loved: painting and creating artwork.

He is survived by one sister, Carol Zick, sister-in-law Anne Rutkowski and many nieces and nephews.

Ralph is preceded in death by 4 brothers, Chester, Charles, Irv, and Harold, and 5 sisters, Margie, Dorothy, Patty, Lorraine, and Arlene.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family at this time. Online condolences may be expressed at MWCS.WS