It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Barry Brian Landowski, age 76, passed away on February 6, 2026. He was born in Wisconsin Rapids and grew up in Baldwin, Wisconsin. Aside from a brief move to Alabama, he spent his entire adult life in Germantown, Wisconsin, where he lived a life shaped by hard work, confidence, humor, and deep devotion to family.
Barry was a lifelong do-it-yourselfer who believed that if something needed to be done, he could — and should — do it himself. He took pride in his work, his home, and the independence he built through persistence and determination. He wasn’t afraid to jump into a project headfirst and figure it out along the way.
Barry was a dedicated business owner and entrepreneur. In 1992, he opened a Minuteman Press printing franchise, a business that became his professional pride and joy. He poured himself into it, building the shop through long hours, attention to detail, and strong relationships with customers. The business was his baby and reflected the same hands-on approach that defined the rest of his life.
Barry enjoyed being around people and had an easy, confident presence. He liked a good laugh, familiar conversations, and being part of the moment. When he was in a room, people noticed — not because he demanded attention, but because he was comfortable being himself. There wasn’t a “dad joke” he hadn’t tried out, and the head-shaking and heavy sighs he received in return would only make him cackle louder.
Wisconsin sports were a true passion for Barry. He was glued to the TV for every Badgers, Packers, or Brewers game — that is, if he wasn’t in attendance in person.
Barry also had a lifelong love of performing. In high school, he embraced the stage with major roles in Bye Bye Birdie and Brigadoon. Later in life, he rekindled that passion through the Falls Patio Players, a local theater group where he participated in numerous productions, including A Christmas Carol and 9 to 5. Whether on stage or helping behind the scenes — even working the box office when he could — Barry simply loved being part of the show. Theater gave him another place to connect, perform, and enjoy the spotlight he never pretended not to love. Music also played an important role in his life. In his younger years, Barry was in the (locally) famous band Red Eye, and he continued singing and playing his guitar throughout his life. In later years, Barry found happiness at home, surrounded by the space he built, the dogs he loved, and the routines he enjoyed.
Above all, family was at the center of Barry’s life. He was the very proud father of three children and grandfather to three grandchildren. He leaves behind daughter Brittany (Bryan) Goehring; son Brian (Amanda) Landowski and their mother, Brenda; and son Nicholas (Liddi) Landowski and his mother, Sue. He is also survived by his adoring grandchildren, Reilly (9), Carter (5), and Asher (3) Landowski; his brothers Terry (Laura) Landowski and Garry (Angela) Landowski; sister-in-law Janine Landowski; honorary brother John (Kelly) Bjerkeng; his beloved dogs, Poppy, Charlie, and Chloe; former spouse Kim as well as many other cherished relatives and dear friends.
Preceding him in death were his beloved mother, Phoebe Cote, and brother, Jerry Landowski.
Barry Brian Landowski will be remembered for his confidence, work ethic, humor, and unmistakable presence. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A visitation will be held Saturday, February 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at CrossWay Church North Shore (2500 W Brown Deer Rd, Milwaukee, WI). A luncheon will follow the service, with additional details to be shared.
