Gary Edward Kiekhoefer

In Loving Memory of Gary Edward Kiekhoefer

November 30, 1951 – September 3, 2025

Gary Edward Kiekhoefer, 73, born in New Richmond, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025, at his beloved summer home on Lake Holcombe, surrounded by the beauty he cherished and the love of family. He split his time between Wisconsin and Texas to be close to his family.

Born on November 30, 1951, Gary lived a life marked by service, love, and unwavering integrity. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a mechanic, where he honed not only his technical skills but also his deep commitment to hard work and excellence. After completing his military service, he earned a technical degree and began a distinguished 30+ year career as a service repairman with Sears.

On June 13, 1981, he married the love of his life, Kathy LaGasse. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, and enduring love. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, Gary poured himself into the lives of those around him. His outgoing nature turned every stranger into a friend.

A man of deep faith, Gary was a faithful follower of Jesus and a devoted servant to his local church. He led by example, instilling strong values in his children, grandchildren, and nephews—values of honesty, humility, resilience, and compassion. Gary sacrificially gave of his time and talents to love others through service.

Known for his warm smile and contagious joy, he had a special gift for hospitality. He was the heart and soul of family gatherings, especially Thanksgiving, where his generous spirit and sense of fun brought everyone together. Whether hosting a meal, fixing something that was broken, or solving a tough problem, he did it all with grace and humility.

He was an avid outdoorsman and angler who found peace and joy in nature. He also had a competitive streak and a love of games—winning his final game of dominoes on the very day he passed. True to form, he left this world with a smile and a win.

He was a strong man in every sense—an anchor for his family and friends, a dependable presence, and a source of wisdom and strength for all who knew him.

Gary was preceded in death by his father Edward, mother Bernice, sister Jean, grandparents Edward and Doris Kiekhoefer and Fred and Ruth Strobush, and parents-in-law Wayne and Susan LaGasse.  He is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Kathy; daughter Sara Biddle (Brandon); son Ryan Kiekhoefer (Brittany); and his beloved grandchildren Kaylin and Niles Biddle, and Jack, Drew, and Mark Kiekhoefer. He is also survived by sisters Doris Mitchell (Jim) and Karen Morien (Gary); brother-in-law Michael LaGasse (Katie); nephews Chad, Cory, Curt, and James Mitchell; step-nephews Brett “BJ” and Kent Morien; great nephews Max and Brady; great nieces Katia, Raelyn and Adelaide; and many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends.

His legacy of love, faith, humor, generosity, and service will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A memorial service for Gary will take place at 3 pm on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Hulke Family Funeral Home.  Memorial visitation will take place that day at the funeral home from 1pm until the time of service.  Inurnment with military honors will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery in Eau Claire immediately following the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Gary's name to The Carpenter's Hope at https://thecarpentershope.org/donate

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com. Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.