Gary G. Svendsen, age 78, passed away Thursday August 31, 2023, in Suring. Gary was born on May 22, 1945, in Green Bay to the late Gordon and Dewella (Thiex) Svendsen. He was the Service Manager of North Country Homes. His maintenance know-how kept the place running for years and ensured his timecard always read 12+1 instead of that other number.

Gary was known as someone who loved his deer at Whippers Whitetails, tractors, his truck, his dog Whipper, his Horse JD and auctions. His love of sweets was second to none and the man knew how to enjoy his coffee, junk food, Sundrop, popcorn balls, burnt spam and deviled eggs. Gary kept his family on their toes with his childlike tendencies and his speedy maneuvering in stores and in public. He made sure that his inner Viking came out when needed and everyone knew it. Gary's life was not the easiest after his experiences in the Army during the Vietnam Era however he pushed through and loved his family.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Audrey; children, Jody and Troy Watters of Shawano and Randy Svendsen of Wausau; granddaughter, Ashley (Watters) Steven Damveld; siblings, Mila (Joseph "Buzz") Waukechon of Shawano and Mike (Judy) Thiex of Bowler. He is further survived by his beloved extended family Maxi Rodriguez of Mexico, Jorge Rodriguez of Mexico, Vicki Lasecki of Pulaski, Michelle and David Erdmann of Bowler; His stepchildren Crystal and Tim Tillotson of Melbourne FL; Scott and Margo Meier of Manitowoc; Alanna and (David) Schramm of Hartford; Christine Vrba of Shawano; multiple step grandchildren; and loving close friends and family.

Gary is preceded in death by his first wife, Darlene; sister Barbara Svendsen, nephew, Chad Waukechon, his parents, Gordon and Dewella.

A celebration of life is planned for Saturday September 9th, at 3:00 pm at Richmond Town Hall, N5170 County Road MM, Shawano. Miltiary honors will be conducted by the Shawano American Legion Post #117 at the town hall on Saturday.