Gary R. Schmechel

Gary R. Schmechel, age 75, passed away at his home on Tuesday, March 14, 2023. He was born on September 29, 1947 to Robert and Marion (Burlo) Schmechel in Milwaukee.

Gary is survived by his son, Daniel (Alison) Schmechel; his grandchildren, Eleanor and August; his sister, Judy (Ron) Gallmann; and his niece, Sarah (Gilead) Chibeya. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Gary graduated from Menomonee Falls High School in 1966, and went on to attend WCTC for machinery repair. He was a AAA baseball player during the 1960’s. Gary was a lead bowling champion in the Waukesha league in 1972 for individual and team. Gary was proud to serve in the U.S. Army from 1969-1971 in the Vietnam War. He was in a photograph in LIFE Magazine, from the Vietnam War, “Reaching Out” by Larry Burrows. Gary worked for Waukesha Engine for 45 years as a machine repairman. He enjoyed spending his days in Winneconne, fishing, and time with his grandchildren.

A Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, March 20, 2023 at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (new location), 2228 N. Silver Maple Lane in Oconomowoc, with a visitation from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Milwaukee.

Memorials in Gary's name may be made to Stars and Stripes Honors Flight of Wisconsin.