Edward "Ed" C. Rux

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Edward Rux on the morning of January 15th. Ed was an impactful figure in the Oconomowoc Community, a loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather.

Ed was born on June 28th, 1937, to Josephine and Clayton in Potosi, Wisconsin. After Ed graduated from Lancaster High School in 1955 where he was a talented three sport athlete, he went on to study History at UW Lacrosse for two years where he competed in the Sport of Football. He then finished his Bachelor’s Degree in History at UW Platteville where he continued to compete on the gridiron. In 1959 Ed began his teaching and Coaching Career in Waukesha before moving to Oconomowoc High School in 1964 where he was a History Teacher and Offensive line Coach. In 1967 he earned a Masters Degree in Education from UW Whitewater and he assumed the position of Head Football Coach at OHS. As Head Football Coach, he would serve for the next thirty-two years, during which time he established OHS Football as one of the elite programs in the State of Wisconsin. During his tenure, the Racoons would amass two hundred and sixteen wins, ten Conference Championships, and a State Final Appearance in 1987 in Division I. Due to his lifelong coaching accomplishments, he was inducted in the Wisconsin Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1999. In 2014 The Oconomowoc Community paid tribute to Ed’s lasting legacy by honoring him with the naming of the football stadium as “Ed Rux Stadium”.

Ed’s impact on the Oconomowoc High School Community transcended mere wins and losses on the Football field. Through his passion for Teaching and Coaching he touched the lives of hundreds of students and athletes. He was deeply committed to the development of character among young people, fostering camaraderie among his teams, and instilling strong discipline. He loved his students and players and built friendships with many that would last a lifetime.

In 1991 Ed married the love of his life Barbara Jean Mikulak. Together they built a life where they enjoyed the twilight of their teaching careers, spent quality time with family and friends, and retreated to their favorite vacation spot during the summer at Lake Vermillion, Minnesota.

Ed was predeceased by his father Clayton, Mother Josephine, Sisters Deanna and Roxeen. He is survived by his Wife Barbara, Son Steve (Colleen) and Daughter Kerry Rux; Stepson’s David (Kattie), Andrew (Shannon), and Matt (Sunshine) Mikulak; Grandchildren- Connor/Kellen/Calista Rux; Sydney/Ian Mikulak; Ethan/Sam/Malayna Mikulak; and Lauren/Alyssa Mikulak.

Rest in Peace Ed. Your memory will forever be etched in the Oconomowoc Community and in the hearts of your family and friends.

Funeral services for Ed will be held at First Congregational United Church of Christ (815 S. Concord Rd. Oconomowoc) on February 1st. Visitation will begin at 2pm and Ed’s celebration of life will begin at 5pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ed’s honor to the Oconomowoc High School Sports Booster Club, Alzheimer’s Association or to the charity of your choice.