Friedrich Gerhard Kirsch

Friedrich “Gigs” Gerhard Kirsch passed away peacefully February 18, 2026 in Wausau, Wisconsin. Gerhard was born February 13, 1939 to Karl and Babette (Bach) Kirsch in Finschafen, New Guinea.

During his childhood, Gerhard and his family moved from New Guinea to Brisbane, Australia, where he graduated from high school. Gerhard became an elementary school teacher, and while teaching in Lae, New Guinea, he met Virginia Marquardt whom he married 61 years ago. Not one to stand still long and wanting to experience more, he and Virginia moved around teaching in Iowa and Wisconsin, as well as schools overseas, including Karachi, Pakistan; São Paulo, Brazil; Zaire, Africa; and Lima, Peru. Upon retirement, Gerhard and Virginia settled in Wausau, close to their sons and family.

Gerhard loved teaching, especially third grade. He made sure that his students received the careful attention that they needed. He also was a Boy Scout leader and bravely led his troop out for winter camping! He coached baseball, basketball and soccer, where he cheered for his teams. Always a sports lover, Gerhard truly enjoyed watching the Packers, Bucks, and the Badgers.

Gerhard had a great zest for life. He loved being with his family and friends. And they knew that if they needed help, Gerhard would be the first one there. He was an avid gardener and was rarely found without a book in hand. Gerhard collected stamps and coins and hats and many other things. Some of Gerhard’s favorite moments were spent at Black Oak Lake, where he appreciated all that nature provided, whether it was bird watching or even just making firewood.

While settling in Wausau, Gerhard became a grandfather, Opa to them. He cherished his time with his grandchildren and was very proud of each of them. Each held a special place in his heart. He loved to joke around and always took the opportunity to teach them something new.

Gerhard is survived by his wife, Virginia, his sons Charles (Deb) Kirsch and Fred (Joan) Kirsch, his grandchildren: Robyn Kirsch, Christopher Kirsch, Carson Kirsch and Allison Kirsch, his three sisters: Marianne Blason, Hedwig Schulz and Heidi Linsenmeier, as well as his sisters-in-law Heidi Kirsch, Katy (Dieter) Harle, Helen (Jim) Skindlov and brothers-in-law Steve Marquardt and Joel (Marion) Marquardt and many nieces and nephews.

Gerhard is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Karl Heinz Kirsch, his brothers-in-law Eric Linsenmeier, George Blason, Eric Schulz and John Marquardt, and his sister-in-law Lynn Marquardt.

A Memorial Service for Gerhard will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, 5304 North 44th Avenue, Village of Maine. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the church, continuing until the time of service. A luncheon will follow.

Condolences may be expressed at HelkeFuneralHome.com.