Rudolph E. Vitek

Rudolph “Rudy” Vitek was born on the family farm in Highbridge, WI, to Peter and Mary (Pikl) Vitek on November 5, 1933. He attended a one-room school in Highbridge grades 1-8, and graduated from Mellen High School in 1952, where he served as Class President his senior year. From 1948-1952, Rudy played accordion in a three-piece band, and after graduation he tried out for professional baseball with the Boston Braves.

Rudy served in the Air Force 1953-1957, and as an Air Policeman in Japan from June 1953 to December 1956. A resident of Menasha, he then worked for Marathon, American Can, and James River Corporation, retiring from there in December 1992.

Rudy married Barbara (Davis) Vitek on October 15, 1960 at Trinity Lutheran Church, where he was a member since 1959. Together Rudy and Barb enjoyed bowling, golf, polka dancing, and traveling. They visited all 50 states, Europe, and Mexico, and took cruises in Alaska, Hawaii, and the Mexican Riviera. After retirement they wintered in Mesa, AZ from 1996-2014. A lifelong fan of sports, Rudy served as President of the Appleton Bowling Association and Secretary/Treasurer for the Tri-City Men’s Bowling League. He regularly cheered on the Brewers, Packers, Bucks, Badgers, Golden Eagles, and Blackhawks.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, his brother George Vitek, his sisters Mary Vitek and Eileen Vitek, his brother-in-law Victor Davis, and his sister-in-law Carol Davis.

He will be dearly missed by his sister-in-law Joyce Vitek of King, brother-in-law Jim (Sue) Davis of Delavan, brother-in-law Daryl (Rainy) Davis of Oshkosh, and brother-in-law Claire Davis of Omro, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends. Our heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Country Villa and Moments Hospice Care.

A funeral visitation will be held for Rudy from 12-1 PM on Monday, April 27, 2026 at Laemmrich Funeral Home, 312 Milwaukee St, Menasha, WI 54952 with a funeral service to follow at 1 PM. Rudy will be laid to rest with his wife at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Neenah, WI at a later date. In lieu of sending flowers, please share your favorite Uncle Rudy story with your loved ones. A memorial has been established in his name at Trinity Lutheran Church in Menasha.