George Paul Klimowicz
April 20, 1933–February 9, 2026
George Paul Klimowicz, 92, passed with grace and strength on Feb. 9, 2026, in Iola, Wisconsin.
Born at home on Strongs Ave in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, on April 20, 1933, he was the celebrated son of Catherine and Henry Klimowicz.
George lived his life guided by a sincere devotion to Jesus Christ and a commitment to serving others for the glory of God.
After moving to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. George graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and, after serving in the US Army, worked as a Certified Public Accountant for the State of Wisconsin Tax Department. He carried himself with integrity and high standards in his profession and was known for leaving no tax unaccounted for — a reputation that did not always endear him to the corporations he audited.
It is said that life is not defined by its beginning or its end, but by the dash in-between — and George lived his “dash” to the fullest. A diverse hobbyist and lifelong science enthusiast, never afraid to try new things or continue learning. George enjoyed 50 years in retirement, giving him plenty of time to explore his passions. George embraced life to the end, performing his final clarinet concert in 2025 and dancing daily with friends and family. He will be fondly remembered for his welcoming smile, sharp and unfiltered wit, infectious humor, and boundless love of life. George lived by his self-proclaimed motto, “Always leave them laughing.”
Being outdoors and staying active were especially important to George, and his favorite place in the world was his land on Sunset Lake. It was a place rich with memories — from attending Boy Scout camp there as a young boy, to many summers spent camping with his family. At Sunset Lake, George swam across the lake daily into his 90s and windsurfed well into his late 80s. The lake was a place of peace and reflection, where he felt deeply connected to God and to his family.
George is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Helen Akin Klimowicz. Their unconventional partnership was deeply meaningful, grounded in independence, joyful companionship, and unwavering devotion. Together, they raised four children: Henry (Brooke) Klimowicz, Katherine (Terry) Simenson, Karolyn (Brent) Halstead, and Khristine (Jeff) Schwoeppe. George was a loving father and a proud grandfather to Alexandria, Johanna, Jack, Wesley, Ryan, Emily, Eloise, and Sarah. He was also blessed with great‑grandchildren: Obadiah, Ashley, Harper, and Hank, as well as two soon‑to‑arrive great‑grandchildren — a baby girl and a baby boy who will carry his name, George.
His legacy endures through the many lives he touched and through the quiet example of a man who sought daily to live in a way that honored God. George, you will be missed. We will see you soon on the other side of the lake, George. Please keep dancing until we get there.
Instead of flowers, donations can be made in George’s name to the Sunset Lake Association.
Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the Klimowicz family with arrangements.
