William “Jack” Gorzalka, 71, of Sheridan, Wyoming, died Thursday, August 26, 2010 at his residence of cancer.

Mr. Gorzalka was born June 30, 1939 in Sheridan to Joseph T. and Mary J. (Holub) Gorzalka. He grew up and attended the SR rural school near Wyarno, Wyoming, Holy Name School, and Sheridan High School.

Jack was a rancher at Wyarno in his early years. He then was a heavy equipment operator with Kiewit Construction, Ruby Construction, Pelesky Construction, Fletcher Construction, and various other construction companies. Jack was also in mobile home sales and services with Tom Dilts before retiring from the Sheridan County Road and Bridge.

Mr. Gorzalka was very active volunteering his time to many veterans’ and their needs. He was a partner in the “Drifter’s Band” for 50 years. Jack loved leather work, hunting, fishing and his family and friends. His Polish heritage was very important to him.

Jack was preceded in death by his father; his step-father, Harold Buell; brother, Robert Gorzalka, and step-son, Kenney Bridwell.

He is survived by his mother, Mary J. Buell, of Sheridan, Wyoming; four daughters, Debbie (Kevin) Hepp, of Gillette, Wyoming, Jacque (John Reilly) Fletcher, of Sheridan, Wyoming, Lynn (Darrell) Steward, and Laura (Chris) Nielsen, both of Cody, Wyoming; one sister, Diana (Wayne) McKenzie, of Sheridan, Wyoming; 7 grandchildren; 2 nephews; and 1 niece; and companion, Joy Cooper.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

Memorials in memory of Mr. Gorzalka may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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