Larry K. Gauker

Larry Kenneth Gauker, 75, of Blandon, PA, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2024, at home in Ruscombmanor Township. Born on January 18, 1949, in Reading, PA, Larry was the son of the late Ralph K. Gauker and Hedwig A. (Wojszwillo) Gauker.
A 1966 graduate of Reading High School, Larry went on to earn a degree from Penn State Berks in drafting. His early career spanned 28 years with the many iterations of Western Electric in Muhlenberg Township. Later in life, Larry devoted almost 20 years to the Fleetwood Area School District before retiring in July of this year.
Larry spent his teenage years working at the family store, Kirby's Seafood on Schuylkill Avenue in Reading. Racing interests took him from the Reading Fairgrounds to dirt tracks across the U.S., partnering with his brother-in-law on Mega Motorsports- a successful midget sprint car team. His love for the outdoors also led him to enjoy traveling and gold prospecting. Larry was a man who reluctantly came to love all the animals that found their way into the household, from horses to cats and dogs, and they always seemed to gravitate towards him.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Judy A. (Merz) Gauker. Larry was a proud father to his son, Timothy S. Gauker, and his daughters, Christie L. (Gauker) Thornhill and Lisa K. Gauker. He is also survived by his siblings: Judith A. Gauker, Carolyn E. (Gauker) Pachuilo, Nancy J. (Gauker) Aquilini, and James R. Gauker, as well as four grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Larry was preceded in death by his brother, Kenny C. Gauker.
Family and friends are invited to attend an informal visitation on Friday, September 13, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Mae Stump Funeral Home in Fleetwood. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to an animal rescue charity of your choice. Online condolences can be shared at www.MaeStumpFuneralHome.com