Ross Robert Wadzinski

Ross Robert Wadzinski died unexpectedly after a years-long struggle with addiction.

Born to parents Robert and Mary Ellen (Cada) Wadzinski in Schuyler, Nebraska, Ross was on the move early—from the toddler who escaped and made his way down to the Felco gas station to the Schuyler Junior High teen taking first place in the 400-meter dash at the state track meet. He was fast.

In earlier years, Ross enjoyed winter sledding, summer firecrackers and fishing at the family cabin in Fremont, Nebraska. While he grew to appreciate different music than his father, swapping classic rock for rap, he still embraced a family tradition, becoming a fourth-generation cheesemaker for a time.

Ross could analyze any mechanical issue, often prepared spicy food (the hotter, the better), and loved his two children. But neither his passions nor repeated treatment programs could break the grip alcohol and drugs had on his life.

Ross is survived by his son Asher Wadzinski of Sheridan, Wyoming, his daughter Allison Mueller of Kellogg, Iowa, his father Robert Wadzinski (Carole Tillotson) of Newton, his brother Reid Wadzinski of Newton, and his sisters Katie Wadzinski of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Kristine and her daughter Annah Wadzinski of Columbus, Nebraska. Ross was preceded in death by his mother.

Visitation is Sunday, September 8, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Pence-Reese Funeral Home in Newton. The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 9, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Newton. There will be a Rosary Service at the church at 10:00 a.m., prior to the funeral Mass. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Schuyler, Nebraska.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Robert Wadzinski to help cover funeral and burial expenses. Any remaining funds will be donated to Hope Ministries.