Sylvester Charles Hraban

Sylvester Charles Hraban, 84, of Minocqua, passed away on April 3, 2026, at Marshfield Medical Center in Weston.

He was born May 18, 1941, in Tony to James and Alta (Winterrowd) Hraban. After losing his father at a young age, Sylvester was raised on the family farm, where he developed a lifelong work ethic helping alongside his siblings and neighboring farmers.  

Sylvester proudly served in the United States Army, where he worked as a mechanic’s helper and later in the mess hall, discovering a talent for cooking and cake decorating. His skill even led him to bake for special military occasions, and he continued decorating cakes later in life. 

Following his service, he settled in Hazelhurst and worked as a lumberjack. A lifelong outdoorsman, Sylvester loved hunting and fishing and formed many lasting friendships at the local hunting shack. 

He spent 20 years with Nekoosa Papers as superintendent of the tree nursery on Squirrel Lake Road, where he was known for his mechanical skill, versatility, and dedication. He later worked 15 years for the town of Minocqua, taking pride in every task, from road work to snow plowing, always believing in the value of hard, honest work.  

In addition, Sylvester served as the Squirrel Lake Dam tender for 43 years with Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company and was a proud member of Operating Engineers Local 139. 

Sylvester was a man who worked hard, loved deeply, and was always willing to lend a hand. Known for his warm smile and firm handshake, he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and 10 siblings.  

He is survived by his beloved wife (“little sweetheart”) of 35 years, Barbara; his children Joseph, Cheryl, Sharon (Jeff), Jodi (Bernie), and Becky (Chad); his sister Shirley (Ronald); sister-in-law Darlene; 11 grandchildren — Brandon, Megan, Tyler, Harley, Hailey, Amanda, Jeni, Jacob, Joshua, Josie, and Jadyn; nine great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.  

Sylvester lived a full and meaningful life and would want to be remembered with gratitude rather than sadness. 

Memorial Gathering for Syl will be held on Saturday, April 11 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Nimsgern Funeral Home Chapel in Woodruff, with a Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m. followed by Military Honors and a reception.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.