Dr. Alfred Wisgoski

Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski, 93, of Peru, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025 at Manor Court of Peru.

Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 AM Monday, May 19, at St. Valentine's Church in Peru with the Very Rev. Gary Blake officiating. Burial will be at St. Vincent's Cemetery in La Salle. Visitation will be in the church on Monday from 9:00 AM until time of services. The Hurst Funeral Home in La Salle has been entrusted with his funeral services.

Dr. Wisgoski was born in Peru on March 11, 1932 to Aloysius and Lena (Pioli) Wisgoski. He married Rita Grimshaw in 1951, and together they had two children, Gregory and Karen. She passed away in 1996. He then married Dianne Dagraedt in 2002. During the Korean War, he served with United States Army and was stationed in Germany. He started his teaching career at La Salle-Peru High School and transferred to LPO-IVCC.  At the college, he was a talented instructor, counselor, Dean of Students, and Administrative Dean. After 23 years as President of IVCC, he retired in 1996. 

Dr. Wisgoski was active in promoting the economic development of the community serving as President of IVAC, President of United Way, President of La Salle Rotary, and President of the State Council of Community College Presidents. He also served as a Consultant Evaluator for the North Central Accreditation Association. Dr. Wisgoski established a faculty exchange program with the Peoples Republic of China. He was honored with induction into LPO-IVCC Hall of Fame, Who's Who Worldwide of Global Business Leaders in 1993-94, Who's Who Among Outstanding Americans 1995-96, and Northern Illinois University for Outstanding Leadership in Higher Education in Illinois.

Dr. Wisgoski was also recognized for Illinois Trustees Association Certificate of Merit, Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service of Industrial Development, Illinois Community Colleges Board Recognition and Grateful Appreciation, and Illinois Valley Fine Arts Cooperative Appreciation for Service to the Fine Arts.

Dr. Wisgoski is survived by his partner Joyce Muraro, his son Dr. Gregory Wisgoski, his sisters Jackie Foster and Joan Zellmer, six grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a son-in-law Nicholas (Leigh) Weber.

He was preceded in death by his two wives and his daughter Karen Weber.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the donor's choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dr. Alfred Wisgoski, please visit our floral store.