Gary L. Talford

Gary Lee Talford, 68, of Eau Claire, passed away at home surrounded by family on Saturday, December 27, 2025 under the care of St. Croix Hospice.

He was born on May 25, 1957 in Eau Claire to L. Kenneth and Gloria (Anderson) Talford. He attended Durand High School before proudly entering the United States Navy in 1975, where he completed his degree. After his military service, Gary built a life defined by hard work, independence, and a love for the open road—both as a semi-truck driver and a devoted Harley rider.

Gary was the proud father of four children: Cary, Brandon, Kirk, and Stacy He was preceded in death by his son Cary in 2008, a loss he carried with him always.

Gary was an outdoorsman at heart; he loved fishing, deer hunting, camping, and spending time outside whenever he could. He also enjoyed traveling, never passing up the opportunity for good food along the way. Known for being stubborn in the most familiar way, he told it like it was. He communicated straight-forwardly, cussed a little, and had a knack for making inappropriate jokes that somehow always landed. Those who knew him best knew that beneath his rough edges was a loyal, caring man with a big heart.

He found love again later in life and married Renee Gentry on February 12, 2007, at the courthouse in Yanceyville, North Carolina. Together they moved to back to Rock Falls where he grew up. In his later years, he was lovingly described as ornery—never losing his edge, his humor, or his authenticity.

Gary will be remembered for his honesty, his grit, his love of the outdoors, and the unmistakable presence he brought into every room.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Gloria Talford; and his son, Cary Talford.

Gary is survived by his wife, Renee Talford; his children, Brandon (Kayla) Talford, Kirk (Jillian) Talford, and Stacy (Ben) Heath; his grandchildren, Alex Lirones, Jake Heath, Brenden Heath, Ryder Talford, Finnlee Talford, and Kaylee Talford; his step-children, Jenny Gerrits, Misty Cornelius, and Brian Lewandowski; his step-grandchildren, Tony Franklin, Mia Gurski, and Isaac Shilling; his siblings, Larry Talford and Laura (Larry) Wrycza; along with many other beloved family and friends.

A visitation for Gary will take place on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Rock Creek Town Hall, N995 County Road H. Mondovi, WI 54755. A Celebration of Life will take place this coming Spring/Summer 2026.  He will be laid to rest at the Spooner Veterans Cemetery at a later date. 

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