John R. Urick,(“Johnny U”), 66, passed away at Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa, WI on Friday, March 13, 2026.
John was born in Racine, WI on September 21, 1959, to Richard and Nancy (nee: Smollen) Urick. He graduated from Horlick HS. He married his sweetheart, Beth Ross (“Betsy” to him), on July 17, 1982.
John was a jack of all trades which led him to work in various industries. He was a printer, a small engine mechanic and a maintenance technician. John was handy and could fix anything, always willing to help neighbors and friends. He was extremely outgoing, befriending everyone. John liked to entertain and share his love of grilling/cooking with others. Football games at the house were always a fun time! He enjoyed traveling with his wife, family and friends taking cruises (islands), road trips, Brewer games and visiting Supper clubs.
John had a profound sense of humor. He lovingly teased those he cared for and gave his daughters and niece’s nicknames at birth. He LOVED his grandchildren especially when they would run up to him and give him big hugs! He would play games such as, “Hide the coin” and “Thumb wrestling”. It was fun to see all the kiddos interact. The family Christmas picture is what he loved the most when all the grandchildren climbed all over him for the group picture. Lots of laughter! He was a very intelligent man, always researching for answers. (His grandson James would tell him he was a genius!). John enjoyed his sports, especially table tennis, golfing and fishing. He was a huge fan of the Packers and Brewers. He was an excellent card and cribbage player as well, leaving many in awe. (Over the years, John has collected a wall full of unique cribbage boards). John liked listening to old country music, especially Alabama. His favorite song was, “Angels Among Us”.
John is survived by his loving wife Beth Urick, sweet and caring daughters Amy Beth (Aaron) Mahoney and Amber Urick; 8 grandchildren; his best buddy/dog, “Sir Samuel Hamuel from the Township of Caledonia” (Sammy); brothers Mike (Tammy) Urick, Jim (Jane) Urick and Bill Urick; In-laws Mike (Mary Jo) Ross and Lee (Lori) Voeks and many nieces and nephews.
. John’s family would like to extend their deep appreciation to Mike and Mary Jo Ross for all the medical consultations they were there for. A special “Love” and “Thank you” to his lifelong friend and travel buddy(s), Mike (Donna) Dhennin, very special neighbors, Jeff (Sandy) Meier and constant visits from Ed (Lisa) Smerchek and Dan (Julie) Sullivan and to his special table tennis and golf buddy friends. John loved each and every family member and friend. You all meant the world to him. He wanted to make sure that you all knew this from him.
A Celebration of Life for John will be held this summer
ANGELS AMONG US [Chorus]
Oh, I believe there are angels among us
Sent down to us from somewhere up above
They come to you and me in our darkest hours
To show us how to live to teach us how to give
To guide us with the light of love