Gary Franklin Scovel

 

Gary F. Scovel, age 85 of Minocqua, WI passed away on Friday, November 3rd at his residence. Gary was born on April 15, 1938 in Oshkosh, WI the son of Harold and Alice (nee Shipley) Scovel. Gary attended and graduated from Winneconne High School and from Lawrence College with Bachelor of Science degree in Geology. Gary married Helen Larson on May 3, 1969 in Beloit, WI. Gary was a Conservation Warden Supervisor for many years.

He is best known for the leadership role he assumed in the most active area of the state involved in Chippewa treaty rights issues. He was active and efficient field commander during the controversial Chippewa spearfishing events, always working to uphold the law. In recognition of his innovative and dedicated leadership, he earned two exceptional performance awards and was presented the Shikar-Safari Club International Award and Conservation Officer of the Year Award in 1986.

Gary loved hunting, fishing, coaching peewee football and little league baseball and training standard poodles for AKC and UKC hunt tests. His proudest moment of training was putting a United Kennel Club Hunting Retriever Champion title on his poodle, Scout.

Gary's son, Jason said “Like a fastball comebacker to the gut I have just learned of my father's passing. A man that taught me more about honor, nature, sportsmanship, and dedication to the spirit than any book or religion could manage. He faced many challenges along the way with an occupation that could place him in rough spots. That role showcased his ardent discipline and his love of friendship and amends. I can truly believe Gary lived the life he wanted to his last. Hunting, fishing, dog training, being in nature and enjoying sports. You seemed invincible and fought off the maladies of aging with valor and your steely demeanor like a pillar of strength. I shall miss you but will hold our memories together high in my mind to comfort and propel me through time as I aspire to your kind of greatness. I won't ever lollygag because of your teachings and awe inspiring voice.

Gary Franklin Scovel, I love you and cherish all you have done for me. Be at peace.”

He is survived by his wife Helen of Minocqua, WI and son Jason Scovel of Illinois and by his beloved pet, Sami and by his sister Gail Bonner and by his nieces and nephews: Cheryl Marx, Dennis, James, Thomas and Kris Carey and by Barbara Fornias, Laura BonneCarre, Cynthia Douglas and Donald Bjork and by numerous friends and colleagues.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Alice Scovel and by his sisters Laura Jean Bjork and Hazel O'Meara and by his beloved dogs Rivitz, Coco, Nikki, Loki, Nero, Scout, Calli and Beau.

Memorial Service for Gary will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11:00 at Ascension Lutheran Church in Minocqua, WI with a visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 . A luncheon will be served after the conclusion of the service.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com

NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.