Walter Lacek

Walter Lacek, age 93, of Canby, Minnesota, passed away Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, surrounded by his family at his home in Canby. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial took place Sept. 6 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Canby. Inurnment was held at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Canby with military honors. Houseman Funeral Home, Birk Chapel in Canby was entrusted with handling the arrangements.
Walter George Lacek was born at his grandmother Sik’s farm home on Oct. 4, 1931, to Mike and Clara (Sik) Lacek. He grew up on his family farm and attended country school through the eighth grade. In 1952, he entered the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean War and was honorably discharged in Sept. 1954 as corporal Lacek. When he returned, he worked as a farmhand.
Then, in August of 1958, Walter married Josephine “Josie” Victor at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. Together they had three daughters: JoLynn, Susan and Ann. Shortly after, they moved to their house in Canby.
Walter was a farmer, trucker and later a janitor for St. Peter’s Catholic Church. After retiring, he was a grocer until the age of 82. He met many of his friends while working there and also got to see many family members there. While he worked at St. Peter’s, the children fondly called him Mr. Clean and Mr. Walt.
He enjoyed fishing, dancing, woodworking, puzzles, gardening and playing Yahtzee as well as going on trips with his wife including two very special trips to Hawaii. He enjoyed watching westerns, wrestling, the Minnesota Twins and Vikings games, and his game shows. Every summer he enjoyed having his grandkids for a whole week individually, riding bike, enjoying treats, and having fun. Most importantly, he enjoyed celebrating special occasions with family and friends.
He was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, the Men’s Club, the Clark-Hanson VFW, and the Peden-Cole American Legion, Post #109 in Gary, South Dakota.
Grateful for having shared Walter’s life is his wife of 67 years, Josie Lacek; his children: JoLynn (Roger) Phillips, Susan (Donald) Brandl and Ann (Randy) Mack; his eight grandchildren; his six great-grandchildren; and many step-grandchildren and step great-grandchildren; his sister, Janet Binnebose; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Clara Lacek; his brothers, Andrew, Floyd and Danny; his sister, Betty; his grandson, Justin Brandl; and his great-grandson, Asher Mack.