Donald Adam Wilczynski May 26, 1945 – December 31, 2025
Donald Adam Wilczynski, 80, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025. Born on May 26, 1945, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Frances Kathryn Wilczynski, and their children: Don Wilczynski II (Karyn), Pam Wilczynski (Jose Camacho), and Erica Ostrander (Layne). He was a proud and loving grandfather to Miranda Lee, Hannah Whitlock, Rachel Hanner, Adrien Foslin, Ren Foslin, Leland Ostrander, and Nolan Ostrander, who brought him immeasurable joy.
He is also survived by his sisters, Maryann Brown and Irene Cercone, and was preceded in death by his brother Alfred Wilczynski, as well as his parents, Adam and Violet Wilczynski.
Donald graduated from the 1965 class of Bishop Knoll High School in Hammond, IN, and proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the United States Army's 101st Airborne Division, known as the 'Screaming Eagles', from 1965 to 1967.
After his service, he worked with integrity and dedication in various roles. He spent 23 years at Inland Steel, 9 years with Marion County, and later retired in 1992 after a 16-year career with Manatee County. His work took him to various parts of the country, calling Baden, PA; East Chicago, IN; Gary, IN; Ocala, FL; and Bradenton, FL home.
Throughout his life, Donald was a member of the Moose Lodge, American Legion, and St. Peter and Paul Church. He was also an active participant in his children's and grandchild's various endeavors.
Donald cherished his family deeply, both immediate and extended, and was always ready to captivate others with a good story. He treasured the times he was able to travel with his wife, Kathy, and taking walks on the beach with their dog, Enchi. He loved traveling, fishing, and spending time in his toolshed, where he found peace and satisfaction working with his hands. His creativity, work ethic, and love for life were evident in everything he did, and these traits have been passed down to his children and grandchildren.
Donald will be remembered for his strength, steady presence, and deep love for those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Visitation will be held on Friday January 16,2026 from 6PM-8PM at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209. With a Mass to follow on Saturday January 17,2026 at 9:30AM at Saints Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church 2850 75th St W, Bradenton, FL 34209.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
