Christopher G. Gadzinski

Christopher G. Gadzinski, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on May 23, 2026. Born on April 4, 1981, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Chris’s life was marked by service, hard work, and an enduring love for his family.

Chris graduated from Lincoln High School in Manitowoc in 1999 before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps on May 23, 2001. He served as a mortar man during two tours in Afghanistan and was honorably discharged after four years of service. Following his military tenure, he returned to Manitowoc briefly before relocating to Minnesota, where he embarked on the next chapter of his life. He married his first wife, with whom he had his son, Colten. On July 30, 2022, he married his second wife, Eryanna, and together they welcomed two children, Nayeli and Michael. Chris’s greatest joy was found in his role as a father, always prioritizing the well-being and happiness of his children. Despite moving to Minnesota, Chris remained a loyal and steadfast fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Wisconsin Badgers. He found joy in deer hunting and was an accomplished cook, particularly skilled at grilling, making awesome dinners for his family. Known for his strong work ethic and willingness to help others, Chris was a dependable presence and a source of support for his loved ones. Professionally, Chris was currently employed as a semi-truck driver for U.S. Foods in Rochester, Minnesota.

Chris is survived by his devoted mother, Kay (Andersen) Gadzinski; his beloved wife, Eryanna Gadzinski; and children, Colten, Nayeli, and Michael. He is also remembered fondly by his brother Aaron (Emily) Gadzinski, nieces Anakah and Isabella, uncles Michael Free and Tom (Sue) Andersen, and aunt Mea Andersen. Special recognition is extended to his cousins Tammy, Tracy, and Troy, and his extended family, including mother-in-law Alina Roa; brothers-in-law Anthony Terrones, Alberto Gray, and Samuel Gray; and grandmothers-in-law Maria Roa and Maria Gonzalez, as well as many other cousins, relatives, and friends who cherished him. He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn Gadzinski; aunts Beverly Free and Donna Hardrath; uncle Jon Andersen; and grandparents Mable (Karbon) and Leonard Gadzinski, as well as Rose Marie (Loef) and LeRoy Andersen.

Visitation will be held at Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, 628 N. Water St., Manitowoc, WI, on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 5:00 p.m., officiated by the Rev. Dr. Matthew Sauer. Military honors will be held directly after the service. A dinner will then be held at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center in honor of Chris.