Justin Paul Gorelik

It is with great sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Justin Paul Gorelik as he was surrounded by the love of his family. This father, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend, gained his eagle wings on March 20th at the age of 78.

Justin was born in Racine, WI, on May 21, 1946. He was a man with a rich vocabulary, great intellect, and antics that gave everyone a laugh, even when he wasn’t trying. He was a great outdoorsman who had a deep passion for deer hunting, fishing, vegetable gardening, and instilled a love of tent camping in his children and grandchildren. Justin’s grandchildren treasure some of their best memories with their papa around the campfire with lots of laughs, firefly walks, rain dances, and stories of his past encounters with wild animals, one being a mama bear. He often stated firmly, “You’ve got to show no fear!” Justin held a deep respect and was intrigued by the Native American culture. In fact, this inspired him in giving his children Native American middle names: Justin Mingan (grey wolf) and Amie Chenoa (white dove). He also enjoyed many rounds of golf with his brothers, children, and two grandsons. Justin was an all around Wisconsin sports fan, but especially devoted his attention to the Brewers in the last three years, rarely missing a game on Bally Sports.

Justin graduated in 1964 from St. Catherine’s HS. During that time, he received a scholarship as one of 15 students in the United States sent abroad to Russia for 5 weeks. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and earned his masters at Ohio State University in Russian studies. He had several significant offers to be an interpreter and facilitator between Russia and the United States, one being involved in the first McDonald’s in Russia. Justin was a family man to the fullest, so he turned down these offers because they required him to travel and be away from his family for nine months out of the year. He spent most of his career guiding families as a licensed CLU ChFC financial consultant, in addition to selling life insurance with Equitable and then retiring at AIG in technical support.

Justin is survived by his children, Justy and Amie (Ben Maccani); his grandchildren, Aleksie, Caeden, Chenoa and Spencer who were the center of his world; his younger siblings, Cecilia aka “Sissy”, Paul (Terri), and Mike (Laura) who looked up to their big brother; his ex-wife, and longtime friend, Patricia; his many nieces and nephews who cared so deeply for their uncle.

He was predeceased by his parents Justin and Cecilia, younger brother/best friend Sylvester, and younger sister Margie.

On Tuesday, May 20th, a visitation for family and friends of Justin’s and his children will be held at the Delta Hotel by Marriott from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. with a memorial service to follow. Location will be in the room to the left of the restaurant, Smokehouse on 20. On Wednesday, May 21st, we will celebrate his first heavenly birthday, and welcome friends and family to join us for the Brewer game at 12:10 p.m. Please reach out to his children if interested in attending and tailgating along with us.

“Fly Like an Eagle, Dad!”