Walter "Wally" "Walt" Cieslak

Age 76 of Columbus. Loving Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Beepa, & Brother, passed away on July 6, 2025 with his family by his side.

Preceded in death by parents, John & Anne; in-laws, Sylvester (Judy) Sendek, Lois Sendek; sister-in-law, Yvonne Newman. Survived by loving wife of 56 years, Nancy; daughters, Elizabeth (Scott) Olson, Christine (Todd) Maas; grandchildren, Trenton (Ashley), Trey (Ashley Alberts), Kurt; sisters, Catherine (John) Pearson, Barbara Keppen; brothers-in-law, Jerry Newman, Gary (Sandra) Sendek; sisters-in-law, Sharon (Thomas) Doran, Jenelle (James) Nelson; many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends.

Wally was born in Minneapolis and raised in Northeast Minneapolis. He was a longtime member of Floor Coverers Local 596 (now Local 68 Interior Systems), affiliated with the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. Wally started his career as a floorcoverer and went on to hold many leadership roles within the union. He worked as an apprenticeship instructor & coordinator. He also served on the union’s contract negotiating committee. His expertise was also put to use as a trustee for pension/health & welfare funds. Wally was extremely proud to work in capacities where he could better the lives of his fellow tradesmen. In retirement he enjoyed woodworking, which he was able to continue even after the onset of his illnesses. Wally’s family would like to thank his care teams at Minnesota Oncology and Beyond Hospice.

Wally’s life will be celebrated with a service at 11 AM Saturday, August 2^nd with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. Memorials preferred to The Angel Foundation or Beyond Hospice.