Rachel H. Woychik

Rachel H. Woychik, 84, of Independence, died April 26, 2026 at the Trempealeau County Health Care Center. She was born on March 5, 1942, to George and Hedwig (Frie) Rothering. Together with her six siblings, Rachel was raised on a dairy farm in Waumandee, Wisconsin. After graduation from Arcadia High School, she was employed by the City of Arcadia in the office of the City Clerk. 

While attending a dance in Waumandee, she met her future husband, Donald Woychik. Upon seeing her for the first time, Donald was smitten by the "girl in the red dress" and they were married on October 13, 1962. Together they shared an inseparable love that would last for over 62 years. The couple farmed in Independence, where Rachel milked cows, managed the business farm records, and made endless errands for mechanical parts needed to keep the operation flowing smoothly. In addition to her farming responsibilities, Rachel maintained employment as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the Trempealeau County Health Care Center for over twenty years, a job that she truly enjoyed. In their retirement, the couple built a poultry facility on the farm, and raised chickens for Gold 'n Plump, now Pilgrim's Pride. 

Rachel took immense pride in her three children and five grandchildren, and was a wise and steadfast supporter in their lives. She was also a gifted hostess, and easily prepared meals that always tasted delicious, even on a moment's notice, and often with humble ingredients. Somehow, when she prepared an Oscar Mayer bologna sandwich on Wonder Bread, it was more tasty than any sandwich from a famous delicatessen in New York City. Her hospitality included the ability to craft a perfect Brandy Old Fashioned, a talent that was greatly appreciated by the many friends and guests at the couple's home and various campsites.

Rachel was a selfless, kind, and resourceful woman, able to navigate life's challenges and persevere under stress and tragedy. She never failed to recognize that each day of life is a blessing and an adventure waiting to happen. Whether traveling across the United States, or simply riding with Donald through the local countryside in their modest pickup truck, Rachel found joy in picnics, garage sales, coffee shops, and camping expeditions.

She is survived by her children, Renee (Thomas) Marsolek and Glenn (Dawn) Woychik of Independence; grandchildren: Laura (Jake) Johnson of Melrose, Kaitlyn Marsolek (Jeremy Wnek) of Thorp, Benjamin Marsolek, Sophia Woychik (Damon Schmalzriedt) of Independence, and Madelyn Woychik of Onalaska.

Rachel was preceded in death by her husband, Donald; son, Randy; and siblings: Georgine Heinz Leavitt, and LaVonne, Marcel, Claremont, Aurelia, and Dewey Rothering. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Independence, with Father George Thayilkuzhithottu officiating. Family and friends may call at the church beginning at 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass, with burial to follow in the church cemetery.

For local floral orders, please contact Liberty Floral in Independence at 715-985-3615.