Went to his heavenly home on September 24, 2023. Age 86 years. Loving husband of Ethel for 65 years. Loving dad of John (Cathy) Henk, Lori Henk, Amy (Mike) Schneider, and Gail (Jeff) Peterson. Proud grandpa of Michael (Bridget), Sharon (Andy), Stacey (Chris), Matthew, Maggie, Sara (Jonah), and Kellie and great grandpa of Abigail, James, Owen, and Juliet. Dear brother of Cheryl Lena. Further survived by other relatives and friends.
Gary graduated from Marquette University with a degree in chemistry. He worked as a Quality Control Manager for various pharmaceutical companies over the years and ended his career as a Quality Control Manager at Phoenix Products. While that kept Gary busy during the day, his true passion was music. He was a master guitar player and was in various bands starting in high school. He met Ethel at a music event when both were in high school and the rest is history. For the next 50 years or so, they were in various country music bands, most notable being Mike Call & the Country Exchange and Country Feelin’.
Gary was a role model father, grandpa and great grandpa. He was hard working and kept busy because there were always “places to go and things to do”. His do-it-yourself and just get it done attitude was an inspiration to all. His love knew no bounds.
Memories of yearly family vacations up north on various lakes, then at the family cottage, will be held close in all our hearts. His patience while teaching family and friends how to waterski was limitless.
You couldn’t help but laugh when Gary laughed. His great sense of humor and infectious laugh will live on in our hearts forever.
Gary touched many lives with love and laughter and music. He will be greatly missed.
Visitation for Gary will be held on Saturday October 14 at the Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home in Menomonee Falls from 10 AM until the time of the Memorial Service at 11:30 AM. "A light lunch will be served immediately following the service." In lieu of flowers, memorials to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation are appreciated.