John Gerl

Gerl, John Marshal

BLACK EARTH – John Marshal Gerl, age 70, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 26, 2021, at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on July 24, 1950, to Albert Gerl Sr. and Virginia (Northcutt) Gerl but spent most of his life in the Madison area. He was "John" to his wife, "Johnny" to many family and friends, "Dad" to his children, "Pappy" to his grandchildren, and beloved to almost all who knew him.

After graduating La Follette High School, John attended UW-Stevens Point for two years and then enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served for two years as a field radio operator, achieving the rank of Corporal (E-4), Marine of the Month, Honorable Discharge, and Meritorious Mast. He met Sharon Krantz prior to serving, fell in love, and they married June 16, 1973, after he returned home. Together they raised two children, Sarah and Zachary, and in his later years enjoyed two grandchildren. He worked for many years at Datex Ohmeda, served as union representative, and made many friends along the way.

John was a very special kind of person with amazing inner strength, endeared to almost all who met him. He could light up a room, bring comfort, calm you, give you the shirt off his back, make you laugh, even make you mad at times with his stubborn nature. He had more common sense and insight than almost anyone. He loved fishing, hunting, spending time with friends and family, and in his later years, just enjoying watching nature and wildlife. He wanted only love and joy in life, never possessions, and was always generous with his time and money.

He is survived in death by his loving family, including his wife, Sharon; daughter, Sarah (Eric) Marcoe; son, Zachary; grandchildren, Emerson and Ellery; brothers, Albert Jr. and Brian; sister, Jennifer; dog, Gilligan; and many, many friends and relatives. He is preceded in death by his mother and father; brothers, Anthony and Michael; nephew, Scott; and niece, Yvette.

A private family service will be held. Friends and family may view the service via LIVE STREAM by visiting John's obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com and clicking on the Live Webcast link at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 4, 2021. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery of Pine Bluff. A public visitation will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Monday, May 3, 2021. Social distancing and face masks are required.

His family would like to thank his UW Health doctors and all the wonderful hospice caregivers.

Memorials may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761