Phillip J. Pekala, Jr., of Polar and formally of Mauston, died unexpectedly due to ongoing health concerns on February 10, 2024 in his home. He was 51 years old. He was born on September 2, 1972 in Mauston, a son of Phillip Pekala and Patricia (Coughlin) Lain. He married Gail (Miller) Pavek on March 14, 2022 in Antigo.

He attended Mauston High School, class of 1990. In 2013 he worked for Bay Metals in Green Bay until 2017. Most recently he worked for Charter Aarrowcast in Shawano.

Phillip's passion from a young age was playing guitar, a trait he learned from his dad and passed on to many family members. He played in many bands traveling across Wisconsin, including Loose Wheel. Phillip also had skills in carpentry and hunting ginseng. He enjoyed spending time with all of his children and family sitting by a fire and passing a guitar around. Phillip will be remembered for his sense of humor, creativity in writing his own songs, and drawing.

Survivors include his wife, Gail Pekala of Polar; daughter, Kayla Pekala of Rollingstone, MN; son, Teddy Pekala of Mauston; four step-sons, Donavan Pavek, Kyler Hartley both of Polar, Nicholas Green of Wisconsin Rapids, and Zachary Phillips of Wabasha, MN; three step-daughters, Vera Pavek, Dixie Smith both of Polar, and Ashley Perez of Lewiston, MN; grandson, Gabriel Hernandez-Pekala; 13 bonus grandchildren; two brothers, Cory Pekala (Audrey Christman) of Lyndon Station, and Kelly Lain of Madison; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 25 at 2 p.m. at Conway Picha Funeral Home in Lyndon Station. Visitation will be Sunday from 11 a.m. until the time of service.

Services