Richard "Ric" Mohelnitzky

Richard "Ric" John Mohelnitzky, age 67, passed away on Nov. 19, 2021. Ric was born August 25, 1954 in Wausau, Wis., to the late George Francis Mohelnitzky and Beatrice Olive Mohelnitzky (Eidsaune).

He attended Newman Catholic High School and graduated in 1972. Immediately after high school, Ric began his lifetime career in the construction industry as an operating engineer working for companies like Wausau-based Tito Babl. Ric loved operating heavy machinery and big equipment, and he always had a true passion for his work. In 1984, Ric began his career as a true public servant at the City of Wausau Public Works Department, which would be a 37-year commitment to his community. He started as a snow plow operator, then Streets Supervisor, and Public Works Superintendent. Ric was passionate about public works and improving the City's infrastructure any way he could, from improving processes like how the City uses brine on the roads to bailing leaves in the fall or waking up in the middle of the night for a Winter snow storm plow route. Ric wanted to push public works forward any way he could with innovative ideas and a passion for purpose. Ric retired in May 2021.

Ric was happiest golfing with his son and family, fishing, gardening and sharpening his master craftsmen woodworking skills.

As a passionate steward of the environment, Ric valued the land and always wanted to learn more about sustainable practices he could apply to his own life. Ric wanted to leave the world a better place for future generations. Ric was preceded in death by his parents George and Beatrice.

Ric is survived by his only son Lucas John Mohelnitzky (Hannah); grandson Louie John Mohelnitzky, former spouse Susan Balliet (Steve Schmidt); Siblings Bob (Kathy), Janet, Tom (Shary) Mohelnitzky

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 4-7 p.m., Jan. 13, 2022, Greenwood Hills Country Club, 2002 Poplar Lane, Wausau, Wis., 54403. All memorials can be sent to Helke Funeral and Cremation Services.

All memorials can be sent to Helke Funeral and Cremation Services.
*The Jan. 13 event is not affiliated with any other celebration.