Allen Slack

Allen Slack

January 25, 1944 - November 22, 2023

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Allen (Al) Slack, who left this world on November 22, 2023, at the age of 79. Al was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Born on January 25, 1944, Al was a man of remarkable achievements. He graduated from Kewaunee High School and went on to complete coursework at UW-Platteville and obtained a B.S. degree in economics and political science from UW-Oshkosh. His thirst for knowledge and dedication to education led him to further his studies at St. Norbert College, UWGB, and eventually receiving a Master’s degree from UW-Stout, specializing in Mathematics.

Notable throughout his life, Al's bravery and compassion were evident from a young age. In August of 1962, he was awarded the Red Cross Certificate of Merit for saving a swimmer's life in Lake Michigan. This act of heroism was a testament to his selflessness and unwavering commitment to helping others.

Al's impact as an educator was immense. He taught at Abbot Pennings High School in De Pere from 1970 to 1978 before joining Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, where he dedicated his teaching career until his well-deserved retirement in 2003. His passion for knowledge and his ability to inspire and guide his students ensured that his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those he taught.

Besides his professional accomplishments, Al found joy in various activities. He excelled at basketball in high school and continued his passion for the game, becoming a member of the Green Bay Officials Association (GBOA). Al officiated both high school boys’ and girls’ games in Northeastern Wisconsin. Playing tennis at Four Seasons, Western Racquet, and Green Isle Park in Allouez brought him immense pleasure. He was a mentor to his son, Bradley, nurturing his tennis skills from an early age and celebrating his successes in high school and college. Al's dedication to the sport extended beyond his family, as he organized and coordinated the National Junior Tennis League for beginners, intermediates, and high school players in partnership with the Brown County Tennis Association and the United States Tennis League. This partnership in the Summer of 1990 included players from Allouez, Ashwaubenon, De Pere, East and West Green Bay and Howard-Suamico.

Al and Gloria moved to Naples, FL after retirement where they enjoyed making many new friendships in their tennis community. Al also became involved with biking in their community and enjoyed the camaraderie with the guys.

Al's love for his family was immeasurable. He cherished being a supportive husband to his wife Gloria, whom he married on September 20, 1969, and found joy in watching his son, Brad, play tennis and his granddaughter, Sydney, play volleyball. Al's world revolved around his family, and he took immense pride in their achievements and milestones.

Al will be deeply missed by his wife of 54 years, Gloria, his daughter-in-law Tonya, and his beloved granddaughter Sydney. He leaves behind his sisters, Deborah Glackin of Sarasota, FL, Susan (William) Mahlock of West Chester, OH; his brother: Terry (Julie) Slack of Kewaunee; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Fred (Lyn) Thor of Kewaunee, Don (Bonnie) Thor of Kewaunee, and Virginia Thor of Milwaukee. His memory will also be cherished by his nieces, nephews, and dear friends: Jean DeSmidt, John/Claire Licciardi, Judy Polano and best friend since Pre-K, Steve Arnold.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Mansel and Norma Slack, as well as his son, Bradley. He was also preceded in death by his in-laws, Adolph and Mary Thor, and his brothers-in-law, Audie Thor and Jeffrey Glackin.

A celebration of Al's remarkable life will occur on December 9, 2023, from noon until 2pm at Cotter Funeral Home, 860 N Webster Ave, De Pere.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the following non-profit organizations: Green Bay Brain Center, 2801 S Webster Ave, Green Bay, WI 54301; St. Jude Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; Paul's Pantry, 1513 Leo Frigo Way, Green Bay, WI 54302; Froedtert Hospital Foundation, PO Box 26509, Milwaukee, WI 53226.

Our family would like to thank the staff at Astor Terrace Rehab, the doctors and nurses at St. Vincent Hospital who provided Al with care and compassion the past few months.