Gerald Lee Labarge

Gerald Lee LaBarge peacefully passed away on July 16, 2024, at the age of 76 in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. He was born on February 11, 1948, to Raymond and Delores LaBarge in Marshfield, Wisconsin, the first of ten children.

Jerry’s journey was one marked by excellence. He graduated valedictorian from Loyal High School in Loyal, Wisconsin in 1966 before being the first in his family to pursue a college degree, which he earned in psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His passions led him to Marquette Law School where in 1974 he earned his Juris Doctor, while also following another passion, music, traveling the road in a band in the summer. Jerry went on to establish his own law firm, Jastroch & LaBarge, in Waukesha. For over four decades, Jerry's expertise and dedication as a lawyer served his clients and his community faithfully.

Jerry found solace in playing and listening to music, often attending festivals or bars with live acts to indulge in his favorite tunes. He found joy in simple pleasures - from traveling the world, to enjoying a round of golf, showing everyone what a real athlete looks like at bowling, camping at the “cabin” in the Dells, eating at his favorite restaurants and engaging in a friendly game of Sheepshead. He was a wonderful father, attending countless concerts, plays, and sports games for his children and grandchildren. He loved family events and entertaining anyone and everyone on the lake, cherishing every moment with his loved ones, and creating lasting memories with his grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Karen; children Ray (Robyn), Lauren (Brian) McDowell, and Kirsten; grandchildren Greyson, Brooklyn, Asher, and Charlie; siblings Jackie Devaney, Tim (Judy), Kathy (Randy) Pachal, Patti (Gene) Pachal, Dave (Kim), Bruce (Lisa), Lisa (Dave) Schumacher; along with other family and friends.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Peggy Dahlby and Tom LaBarge.

In celebration of his remarkable life, a visitation will be held at Pagenkopf Funeral Home (NEW LOCATION: 2228 N. Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066) on Thursday, July 25, from 5-7pm. Following this, another visitation will take place at St. Joan of Arc (120 Nashotah Rd, Nashotah, WI 53058) on Friday, July 26, from 10-11am, with a service and luncheon to follow.