Gertrude Drazkowski

Gertrude A. Drazkowski, 89 of Winona, passed away March 8th, surrounded by family at Sauer Health Care.

She was born March 5th, 1936, in St. Charles MN, to Henry and Gertrude (Perry) Milene. She attended St. Charles High School and attended Winona Technical College to obtain a degree in Supervisory Management. On June 29th, 1963 she married her late husband James Drazkowski. During her life she raised a family and also worked part time for companies in Winona such as Bollins, Goodalls, Piggly Wiggly, Peerless Chain, Stevenson’s clothing, and graciously helped seniors in their homes. Gertrude enjoyed volunteering at The Watkins Home, BirthRight of Winona, and attended Bible studies at the Church of the Nazarene. She had a passion for crafts, sewing quilts and clothing, hooking Afghans, painting with oil & water color and playing bingo. Gertrude loved to have neighbors over for coffee, host tupperware parties, or do beauty shop appointments in her home. She enjoyed baking, gardening and flowers.

She is survived by her sons, Vince Milene (Jackie) of Winona, Kim Milene (Millie) of Stockton, David Drazkowski of Winona, Robert Drazkowski (Gwen) of Ashland, Maine; daughters, Vicki Kulas of Winona and Barbara Lightfoot (Tom) of Ankeny IA and sons, Michael Drazkowski of Rochester, and Eric Drazkowski of Winona. Gertrude had many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She is survived by her sisters, Karen Lapier of Minnesota City and Caroline Robinson of Los Angeles.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Drazkowski; parents, Henry and Gertrude M. Milene; brothers, Barclay, Lloyd (Bud), Perry, Marlo Milene, and Bruce Milene; sisters, Isabelle Larson, and an Infant sister.

There will be a brief graveside service at 1:00pm, Tuesday, March 18th at Saint Mary’s Cemetery- Winona. If you are coming to the service, please enter the cemetery at the Armory entrance and form a line of cars near the chapel and wait in your vehicles you are led to the gravesite.

Hoff Celebration of Life Center – Goodview is assisting the family with arrangements. www.hofffuneral.com