Rick Szymanski, 58

Rick N. Szymanski, 58, of Red Wing, died unexpectedly at his home while shoveling on Monday, Jan. 28.

He was born June 15, 1954, in Oconto Falls, Wis., to Anthony and Viola (Zarling) Szymanski and attended school in the area. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1972, serving until he was honorably discharged in 1975. He lived several places throughout the U.S. until 1985 when he was united in marriage to Bethany Upjohn. They lived in Eau Claire a short time before settling in Red Wing in the late 1980s.

Rick was a guy who cut his own path in life. He did some financial mentoring and was also involved in working with Adults With Disabilities - from transporting to teaching. It was something he greatly enjoyed. Rick also co-taught hypertufa classes with his wife through Red Wing Community Education, and he could be seen around town delivering the Rochester Post Bulletin.

He is survived by his wife, Bethany of Red Wing; his faithful furry companion, Muttley; his mother, Viola Szymanski of Gillett, Wis.; siblings Sue Klipstein of Suring, Wis., Wayne and Mike Szymanski and Linda McGraw, all of Gillett; and a brother-in-law, Thomas Upjohn of Vancouver, Wash.

He was preceded in death by his father, one brother, and two sisters.

A memorial gathering will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, on the ninth floor of the Downtown Plaza, 434 West 4th St., Red Wing. Burial will be at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.

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