Kurt F. Gauger

PORTAGE  --  Kurt F. Gauger, age 92, of Portage, passed away on Monday, February 18, 2013 at Tivoli in Portage.

Kurt was born in the Lutheran faith in Germany on January 27, 1921, the son of Franz and Lydia (Vollbrecht).  His family came to the United States in 1927, and settled in Milwaukee until the depression. At that time, the family moved to Wonewoc.  Kurt served during World War II, as a squad leader with the 745 Combat Infantryman, receiving the Combat Infantryman Badge.  Kurt worked for American Motors for many years.

He is survived by his sister, Freida Lawsha, Baraboo;  his sister-in-law, Lucile Gauger, Endeavor;  special niece and nephew, Lori and Steve Biba, and Frank and Liz Gauger;  other nieces and nephews, Brent, David Retzlaff, Judy Klee and Janice Tauber;  other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Henry “Hank”, his sister, Eva Retzlaff, brother-in-law, Leon “Bud” Retzlaff, and brother-in-law, Ray Lawsha.

By Kurt’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.  Burial will be in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Wonewoc, Wisconsin, at a later date.  The Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Amy Strain.