Gerald G. Knueppel

Gerald G. Knueppel passed away peacefully on Friday, Jan. 14, 2022, at the age of 88. He was born to Melvin and Susan (Blum) Knueppel on Dec. 21, 1933. Gary grew up in Milwaukee, graduating from Rufus King High School in 1952. He then attended Wisconsin College, Milwaukee (later UW-Milwaukee) until he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served in the Korean conflict as a cook. He was honorably discharged in December 1955 having earned the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Ribbon, and United Nations Service Medal. A short time after separating from the Army, Gary met Carol Sopinski, marrying her three months later on March 16, 1957. Gary worked at Sealtest Ice Cream for 13 years before moving on to Hansen Storage. After 17 years at Hansen Storage, many of which as a union steward, he retired, beginning the next stage of his life with his wife in Gillett. Gary was a member of American Legion Post 283. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, hunting, and most of all watching sports. Gary was a Wisconsin sports fan all the way. Over the many years having watched and attended many games of the Braves, Brewers, Bucks, Badgers, Admirals and Packers. If any game was on you can bet he was watching it. John Wayne was his favorite actor and he had every movie and show that the Duke ever made. Without a doubt the memories of growing up as kids, grandkids, great grandkids, sister, and friends will live on in our hearts. Jerry, dad, pops, grandpa, uncle, you will be missed. Gary is survived by his six children, Richard (Carla), Debra, James (Joyce), Jeffrey (Susan), Gregory (Kelly) and Dianne (Pernel); 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Corrine Anderson; two nephews, Thomas and James. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Carol; and son, Michael. A celebration of life for Gary will be held on Sunday, May 1, 2022 at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring from noon until the memorial service at 1 p.m. with Pastor Bill Krauss officiating. Military honors will be performed following the service. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com. In memory of Gary, memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, https://www.alz.org.