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Gary Kautenburg Obituary
A Funeral Service will be held Thurs. at 7:30 PM at the Funeral Home. Family will receive friends from 3:30 PM until time of Service. Private Interment.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family would be appreciated.
HERITAGE FUNERAL HOMES
Gillette Johnson, Johnson & Reiss
9200 S. 27th St. 414-761-2750
guest book and directions
www.heritagefuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary Kautenburg
Mark, Patty, Carl and Kim Sobolik
January 31, 2006
We are saddened to hear of your loss. Mr K's enthusiasm was contagious to the students as well as the parents who attend and support the Marching Knights. He will be missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Stephanie Cerniglia
January 30, 2006
Dear Kautenberg Family,
Although I was not directly involved in the band, I was in the choir and have heard lots of great things from friends who were in the band about Mr.K. During my four years in Choir, I know he did wonderful things to create a wonderful band and I hope his memories stay alive within the band and their music. He was a great inspiration to the program and will truly be missed by all who knew him.
Hope, Dean, Robert, & (Stefanie/Michael Harman) Carlson
January 29, 2006
I just heard the news today and I realized Mr. K was more than just a band teacher. Mr. K was an inspiration for both of my children to strive for the best. Music gave them discipline, music opened their hearts. Mr. K might of ran a tight ship during competition, but he had fun as well. He will be greatly missed. Our condolences to the Kautenburg family and extended family. Your husband, Your Father, and your Brother was truly a remarkable person and is blessed thru all those he touched. Heaven is now a fuller place and playing beautiful music with Mr. K directing God's Orchestra. God Bless you all. The Carlson Family, Hope, Dean, Robert, (Stefanie & Michael Harman)
Phil & Katie Rothschadl
January 27, 2006
Gary was a wonderful friend, colleague and mentor. He will be missed and never forgotten. Our hearts go out to Christine and Katie. He was taken much too soon.
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Rodger Nelson
January 26, 2006
My deepest condolences to the Kautenburg family. May god be with you through this time of sadness. Gary was a good friend & I will hold on to the many warm memories that we both shared.
Andrew Foucault
January 26, 2006
I am proud to have had the honor of being in Mr. K’s first freshman class when he came to OC. From day 1, he had a contagious enthusiasm for music, the band, and most importantly, his students. He was able to teach, drive and lead us to things we never thought were possible, while also helping us wade through our daily high school lives. It probably wasn’t until my senior year when I realized not only how much I appreciated Mr. K for his constant efforts at making us better, but also how much I valued him as a friend. He taught me, among countless other things, that it is possible to have fun while working hard…and also “don’t be sheep!” My family and I would like to offer our deepest condolences to Chris, Katie, Kelly and the rest of the Kautenburg family.
Jennifer Krueger
January 26, 2006
I enjoyed working with Gary when I began my teaching career. The ways in which he worked with his students was to the highest degree. He can now make music in heaven. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and the OCHS band family.
Sarah Guerrero
January 26, 2006
I know one of the best memories of Mr.K is him saying to various students and myself "if you like him ask him out". It always made me laugh. Mr.K was amazing. He was one of the two people that made me love music, and made me today want to be a music major in college. I do not want to teach music as a teacher, but I do want to teach people that music is great. I still think of him today and I wont ever forget him how he changed my life. I would never have graduated High Schoool if not for him and for the band that he lead. He kept me out of trouble, and kept me involved in Music and showed me how fun it is. I think him, as a person who has made me the person I am today. I am so sorry for this loss and I know he will never be forgotten.
Jennifer Ceparski
January 26, 2006
I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of Mr K's passing. Like many before me have mentioned, my 4 years of band were some of the best moments of my life. Even now more then 10 years after graduation I still pull out the old Marching band tapes to see all that he taught us and the pride and joy he evoked in all of us. I'm sure He'll forever look down on all of us with "Eye's of pride"
Cari Sem
January 25, 2006
Mr. K certainly made a great impact in my life and many students' lives. He not only gave us the gift of music, but he also taught us dedication, discipline, confidence, and the aspiration to shoot for our dreams. I know that right now he is looking down from heaven, listening to the beautiful music that his students are making for him. When we meet again, I know we'll all make music together once more. My deepest sympathies go out to his family. I am truly grateful for the gifts he gave me, and I will never forget him. He will be missed by many.
Lisa Muenzenberger
January 25, 2006
Mr. K, thank you for opening my eyes to the world of music. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family.
He was a compass in my life and opened my eyes to the wonderful world of music through our travels to other states, marching band competitions, concerts, and solo and ensemble. His passion for teaching music touched all of us. From the graceful wave of his baton to his bellowing reminders that we were off key or marching like chimpanzees, his legacy will not be forgotten. I was shocked to hear of Mr. K's passing and he will be greatly missed. God bless him and his family.
Heather Kastenson
January 25, 2006
I send my deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. K. I was one of many band students that he influenced over the years at OCHS. I owe him a great deal of gratitude for always making band a happy experience, for allowing me to go on four memorable band trips, and giving me the opportunity to have made some of the best friends that I have. The influence he had in my life is profound, and through band he taught me a great deal about more than just music but life itself. He will be deeply missed by all that he touched through his teaching and the band program. He was truly one of the greatest teachers I ever had and helped make high school four of the best years of my life.
Ron Ahlensdorf Jr
January 25, 2006
We wanted to thank you all for your kind thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Our prayers go out to fellow teachers, friends and students all of whom will miss Gary very much. The Kautenburg Family.
Lynn Chasin
January 25, 2006
My heart goes out to Christine, Katie, and everyone who knew Mr. K. His dedication to the band program and "his kids" is inspiring. Under his and Ms. Fuch's direction the band was our second family. When he said "we will take good care of your kids", there was no doubt. His memory will live on in all of us.
Ray, Lynn, Kevin and Andrea Chasin
Sharon Millard
January 25, 2006
Please accept our deepest sympathy in your loss. Gary touched so many lives and will be greatly missed. He brought a lot of joy to so many people. I feel very fortunate to have know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Jenny Lawrence-Krauss
January 25, 2006
My fondest memories of high school include Mr. K. and the OCHS Band. I will never forget the twinkle that would appear in his eyes when we were doing it right. You could always see the excitement on his face and that twinkle, it made you proud to be a member of the OCHS band. Please accept my deepest sympathies as we remember this great man.
Nina Bricko
January 25, 2006
Mr. K was an amazing man who really touched the lives of every person he ever encountered. I think that band was one the best things that happened in my highschool life, something I'll always cherish. I am very sorry for your lose.
Darlene Vodvarka
January 25, 2006
Sorry about yourloss, remember all the good times that we had.
Julie Erickson
January 25, 2006
My heart goes out to your family for such a tragic loss of a good man. I did not know Gary that well since just moving here, but the person I did know was great. Katie, my heart goes out to you as you struggle with losing your dad, just remember he will always be looking down on you and smiling. Mrs. K you have my deepest sympathy. God Bless you and your family.
Julie Erickson (Brittanys mom)
Gary T.
January 25, 2006
We are so sorry for your loss. Over the years, our working relationship turned into friendship and enormous mutual respect. Gary was a true man amoung men, and will be sorely missed. The "red bus" will never be quite the same. Our thoughts and prayers are with all whose lives he touched.
Gary T.
January 25, 2006
We are so sorry for your loss. Over the years, our working relationship turned into friendship and enormous mutual respect. Gary was a true man amoung men, and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with all whose lives he touched.
J. Fleming
January 24, 2006
My deepest condolences to the family. Mr. K was a pretty awesome music teacher and I'll never forget him. It's hard to believe he has passed on.
Jaclyn Koehler
January 24, 2006
My deepest sympathies go out to Gary's family. It was truly a shock to hear the news. He was a great man and will be missed by many.
Gary Ciepluch
January 24, 2006
It was a very sad day when the UW Band office informed me of the passing of a very special man, friend and colleague, Mr. Gary Kautenburg. It seems impossible that it has been two decades since we were Field Assistants together for the Badger Band. His wonderful and unique smile, voice, enthusiasm and personality were forever his trademarks and will be deeply missed. Thank you Gary for all of the good times and great memories. My deepest sympathy to all of his students, friends and family. I know that his hope to all of us is to never let the music stop.
Lori, Mark, and Jason Bahrs
January 24, 2006
Christine and Katie, our thoughts and prayers are with you. We only knew Mr. K. for 2 years but he really touched the lives of my boys Mark and Jason. He really brought a great love of music to them. He will always be remembered
Seugnet Muller
January 24, 2006
If i had to describe the impact that Mr K had on the lives of everyone he came into contact with in a few words I don't think I would be able to do it the justice it deserves. I do however know that Mr K had faith in our Band. After all "It's not the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog." Mr. K had so much heart and he put EVERYTHING into this Band. Now it's our turn to give something back. From now on every competition, concert, show, performance and class is for him. He will be missed...but will remain in our hearts forever!
Mary C., Andy K. and Stephanie M.
January 24, 2006
Mr. K was by far the best teacher we ever had. He taught us more than just music. We learned how to be respectful, and band can never be the same without him. Our deapest sympathies to his family and Ms. Fuchs.
Jordan Solda
January 24, 2006
I extend my deepest sympathy towards Mr. K's family. He was a great man and kept our phenomenal band held together in every aspect. If it weren't for his brilliant musicianship and leadership skills, the Oak Creek Marching Knights wouldn't be where we are today. Whenever we take the field, he will be in our minds, and in our hearts.
Sarah Halstead
January 24, 2006
My deepest sympathies go out to Gary's family and the community which he called home. I knew Gary from my marching band days in the UW-Madison Marching Band and the good times are too numerous to site. I will always remember Gary's big smile and encouragement, his expectation for excellence and the ability he had to make everyone around him feel very special indeed. May the music of heaven surround you now...until we meet again.
Ed and Charlene Heise and family
January 24, 2006
Gary not only touched lives, he touched hearts. He was the head of a very large family and will be missed by many. Christine and Katie, you are in our prayers. Love to you. We are truly blessed to have been part of that OCHS Band family, and hurt for your loss as well as the communities!
Cindy &Paul Cernohous
January 24, 2006
Dear Christine and Katie:
Paul & I were in the band when Gary was the percussion field assistant. He was quite an influence on both of us as we both entered the realm of the "black suit". We have you in our prayers and wish you our deepest sympathies. He was a leader to all of his families - Badger Band, Oak Creek, and his true family.
With our prayers,
Cindy & Paul Cernohous
Amanda & Kali Senger
January 24, 2006
Please accept our deepest sympathy in your loss of an amazing man. He brought so much pride and joy to all the band members and their parents. Mr. K was a remarkable man, loving father, and dedicated teacher. He will never be forgotten.
Amy St. Martin
January 24, 2006
Mr.K was the best teacher I have ever had. Not only did he make every day worthwhile but he taught us things you could take out of the classroom like respect, discipline, hardwork, and so much more. He was like a father to all of us who went through the band program, and will be in our hearts forever.
Stefanie Horton
January 24, 2006
Sorry for your loss. Mr.K. was a good man. I have learned so much, not just about music, but about lessons in life I still use today. As he said "We all put our pants on the same way." Thank-you Mr. K.
Mike Kieffer
January 24, 2006
Dear Christine and Katie,
I'm so very sorry. I'm known as the uniform guy. Gary was much more than a client to me - he was a friend. I'll miss him very much.
May our Lord bring Peace to your hearts during these next few days and months.
Peace & prayers,
Mike
Larry Schneider
January 24, 2006
Being involved with the band program and Gary for the last four years has been a great experiance. One that my son and our family will cherish forever.Gary and all his family are in our hearts and prayers. Larry,Lynette & Justin Schneider.
Linda Holler
January 24, 2006
Dear Christine, Katie & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Gary will always be in our hearts. I will always remember the concerts, trips, competitions, practices and Gary's dedication to the OCHS Band Program and his students. Our Deepest Sympathy. Linda Holler & Family
Nancy Paine
January 24, 2006
I wish to extend my sincere thoughts and prayers to Garys entire family. I knew him only as the person he called when he needed motorcoaches for his awesome band trips. He will be missed by former and current staff at Riteway Bus Service.
Debby and Danielle Knoff
January 24, 2006
Please accept our deepest sympathy in your loss of Gary. It takes a special person to bring 180 kids together and make them one unit. Gary would ask for 110% and the kids would give him 150%. We will miss him for a long time to come. God bless you and your family in this difficult time.
Kevin Farrell
January 24, 2006
My heart goes out to you Christine and Katie. Gary brought a lot of pride and respect to the band program and to our community. He helped find the good things in all of us. We will miss him.
Senger Family
January 24, 2006
Our sympathy goes out to the family of Mr. K. He was a remarkable person who touched all of our lives, and will be forever remembered.
Michelle and Jackie Seymer
January 24, 2006
We are very sorry to hear about your loss. Our condolences go out to your family. The Seymer Family
Julie Arend
January 24, 2006
As I am sure almost every student will agree, Mr. K made the four years of high school a very memorable time. He was the driving force behind our achievements in music. He took us to places we might never have seen and provided us with a place to create the deepest friendships. He will be missed and not soon forgotten.
John, Cindy and Jennie Hoeft
January 24, 2006
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Kautenburg family. Mr. K and his family will be in our thoughts and prayers. He will be missed not only by his family, but also his "band families".
Ken Nowak
January 24, 2006
The music will live on forever in the hearts and minds of all who were lucky enough to have had you touch them with your talents,our son Tim will miss you and never will forget the values you set for yourself and your students!Thank you for being you!
Kari Snorek
January 24, 2006
Couldn't believe the news when I heard it. He made the OC Band what it is today, it's a terrible loss for the band and its alumni. He will be missed.
sue meyer
January 24, 2006
We will sure miss you, the GREATEST BAND MAN Oak Creek ever had!
Lynne Nelson
January 24, 2006
Christine & Katie: I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that all the good memories of Gary will help you to remember him as he was! He touched many peoples' lives! Keep the music playing!
Chris,Rosemary, Kristy & Heather Lesko
January 24, 2006
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Mr K's hard work, long hours and dedication to the Oak Creek Marching Knights Band will never be forgotten and will always be appreciated.
Claudia Jordan
January 24, 2006
Our entire family and especially our two marching children, Bridgette and Mathew, are honored to have known Mr. K. He inspired all who met him and we will greatly miss him each and every day.
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