Gary W. Oswald

Gary W. Oswald, Kewaunee, a man of immense strength and deep faith, has passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the age of 78.

Gary spent his career building the world around him, working in construction throughout Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula. He spent years at Hamachek building equipment to harvest food for people. Known for his physical power, he was the kind of man who could swing his siblings and children from his arms with ease. His strength was matched only by his playful spirit; many of his family's fondest memories involve being tossed into the refreshing waters of Kangaroo Lake.

Beyond the job site, Gary found peace and purpose in the earth. He was an avid gardener with a gift for growing things, a lover of animals, and a fan of the thrill that came with a fast sports car. In his younger years, he could often be found at the roller rink, and in retirement at a casino hoping for a big payout.  He never missed an opportunity to share the magic of the holidays, famously taking friends and family out trick-or-treating and decorating his house and yard for Christmas.

Gary's life was deeply rooted in his faith. Confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran in Kewaunee, he later became an active member and officer at St. John's, Two Creeks. He lived his life by his confirmation verse, John 15:5: "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."

Gary's greatest harvest was the love he grew within his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Doris A. Oswald, and his children: Amy Jo (Eugene) Goodavish, Andy (Charr) Oswald; granddaughter: Aurora Oswald (grandpa's little helper).

He leaves behind a large, loving family, including his siblings: Dale Oswald, Patti Hedeen, Ann (Michael) Norkofoski, Ruth Oswald, Peggy (Robert) Joslolski, and Sara Oswald (Carla Byrnes). He is further survived by his sister-in-law, Darlene (Walter) Boeder, brother-in-law, Roy (Sue) Ihlenfeld, and many nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Lorraine Oswald.

A visitation will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Kewaunee. Funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Matthew Sprunger officiating. Burial in Forest Hill Cemetery. Kinnard Funeral & Cremation Services, Kewaunee, is assisting the Oswald Family. Online condolences can be shared at KinnardFCS.com.

In honor of Gary's commitment to his church community, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Immanuel Lutheran Elevator Fund.

Gary will be remembered as a man who could build a house with his hands, a garden with his heart, and a legacy of strength for his family.