John “Johnny O” Ondrejicka

John Ondrejicka, aka “Johnny O”, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family and friends on Thursday, December 21, 2023, age 68. He was the cherished husband of Yvonne “YO” for 47 years, a loving Dad to Jennifer (Joe Kirchgraber) and Danielle, and proud “Bapa” of Cash and Charlie. He was an amazing brother to Jean (Keith) Osmanski, Marie (Jack) Ise, Bette (Mark) Thiel and Rick (Ann) Ondrejicka. He was further survived by other family members and many lifelong friends. John’s family would also like to give a special thanks to everyone who provided support over the last couple of years, especially John’s siblings and cousin Don Drake, and his hospice team, including Tina, Jamere, Beth, and Eliose, with great support from Ann Ondrejicka.

John had a happy childhood in Milwaukee and was a graduate of Messmer High School, class of 1973. He married the love of his life, Yvonne, in 1976 and they built a beautiful life together in Waukesha while raising their daughters. His passion was in landscaping, and he was great at it! He started his profession in the field in 1975 at Lied’s Nursery, and John quickly rose to industry fame. He concluded his respected career at Villani Landshapers, a company he loved very much during the 11 years he worked there, and he was honored as the first recipient of the inaugural Hall of Fame award from the Wisconsin Landscape Contractors Association (WLCA) in 2022. Over his 47 year career, he received 14 WLCA awards and two American Landscape Contractors Association (ALCA) awards. His thumbprint is literally all over Southeast Wisconsin, featured in his beautiful land and waterscapes. His other favorite pastimes included playing volleyball, tending to his own spectacular yard, drinking Miller High Life, attending concerts, and researching his family ancestry.

John was hardworking, dedicated, and patient. He loved unconditionally and never had a bad word to say about anyone. Even after receiving his cancer diagnosis, he remained positive and determined. He will be remembered for his kind heart and quiet inner strength.

John’s Celebration of Life will be held at Queen of Apostles, N35W23360 Capitol Drive, Pewaukee, WI 53072, on Thursday, January 11, 2024, from 9:30AM – 12PM with Mass to follow at 12PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Glioblastoma Foundation or St. Camillus Hospice are appreciated.

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