COTTAGE GROVE/OCONOMOWOC - Gary Kaech, age 70, of Oconomowoc, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025, at Aurora Medical Center Summit. He was born on July 13, 1955, in Madison, Wis., the “favorite” son of James and Virginia (Peterson) Kaech.

Gary graduated from La Follette High School in 1974. In his high school years, he played football, hockey, and baseball. During Gary’s middle school years, he even had a short career as a rockstar (G.L.O.R.I.A.). After high school, Gary worked in the vending industry for 40 years. In 1983, his favorite daughter, Ashley, was born. Coaching Ashley in baseball and softball throughout her childhood was a cherished memory of his. He was united in marriage to Tonya on February 19, 2010, and they spent four wonderful years together, sharing activities and interests, including competitive archery, until Tonya’s death in 2014. Gary missed her dearly.

Gary loved being active, especially playing fast pitch softball, power lifting, competing in motocross racing, and being a crew member of multiple midget racing teams. He was an avid hunter and enthusiastically cheered on the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers. Gary took great pride in his home and was very meticulous about his lawn. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor and the time spent with family and friends.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Ashley; sisters, Kate and Nancy (Mark); brothers, Steve (Nancy) and Tom (Donna); special friend, Cathy; his grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Tonya; parents, James and Virginia; and brother-in-law, Garland; and dogs, Jake, Jed, Kaylo and Scout.

A memorial service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the Cherish Wisconsin Outdoors Fund.

Family would like to thank their cousin, Linda for giving their family ten more years with Gary, with her gift of kidney donation.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Gary Kaech

July 13, 1955 - October 06, 2025

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