Edward "Pops" Szelagowski

Edward “Pops” Szelagowski, 72, of Westfield, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Ed was born on July 3, 1952 to Edward and Elizabeth “Betty Mae” (Griff) Szelagowski In Garfield Heights, Ohio. Work took him from Ohio to Illinois and eventually Wisconsin. Ed worked in the fastener industry for over 45 years. He began as a salesman to company owner. In 1995, Ed formed Assembly Products, Inc. with a small group of people. He eventually bought out all partners and was sole owner/CEO and continued to work until his passing.

In 1980, Ed married Lucy Rodriguez. Ed and Lucy were blessed with three children, Ed Jr. April and Christopher. Ed was also blessed with a daughter, Jennifer, from his first marriage.

Ed was truly a caring and giving man. He was willing to help anyone in anyway he could, giving advice on his wide spectrum of knowledge. Pops loved playing the part of matchmaker. His most recent matchmaking marriage story is Mike and Alexa Lichtfeld, who are expecting their first child this month.

Ed loved spending time with his sons watching football, but his real passion was racing. He went from a NASCAR spectator to racecar team owner. He enjoyed using racing as a special marketing took for business. His customers enjoyed spending time at different racetracks, especially when he and Lucy owned Bill Elliot’s NASCAR hauler. Ed also enjoyed helping Saturday night drivers excel in the sport and sponsorship of Dells Raceway Park. He always reminded drivers that they are in the show business and to put on the best show possible. The family thanks all the racecar drivers that made Ed’s dreams come true.

Ed loved his yearly Disney vacations with his family and friends. He wanted his grandchildren, Charlotte, Nyx and Levi, to experience the happiest place on earth together while growing up. Pops took his family on many trips to Fort Myers and other beach destinations. He enjoyed the warmth of the sun; it helped with easing his daily pains.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Betty Mae Szelagowski.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Lucy; children, Ed (Kristy) Szelagowski Jr, April Szelagowski, Christopher (Ashley) Szelagowski, and Jennifer (Jason) Burkardt; grandchildren, Charlotte Szelagowski, Nyx & Levi Szelagowski, and Paige Monesmith; one great-granddaughter, Adelee Monesmith; sister, Karen (Dennis Nielsen) DeAngelis; niece, Stephanie (Lon Tibbs) DeAngelis and their children, Nina and Ethan; many other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life for Ed "Pops" will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Steinhaus-Holly Funeral Home in Westfield.

Please take a moment to view the online Tribute Wall. Send your condolences or share a memory of Pops with his family & friends.