Gary E. Goecks, age 62 of rural Juda, died after a farming accident on Wednesday, September 10, 2008 at the University Hospital in Madison. He was born on August 21, 1946 in Monroe, the son of Emil O. and Doris (Wunschel) Goecks. Gary lived in rural Juda from the time he was born until present, purchasing the farm his family still lives on in March of 1969. He attended the Bright School in rural Juda, and then graduated from Juda High School. Gary married Joann D. Spani on October 1, 1966 at St. Victor Catholic Church. Gary's real passion in life was his farming, which he had done his entire life. He began working at the Juda Schools 4 1/2 years ago as a custodian; he enjoyed his work because of the kids and great co-workers. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, tractor pulls and spending time with his family. When Gary was younger, he was an avid fast-pitch softball player, then slow-pitch, and later on, bowling; he loved all three. The highlight of Gary's last few years was in June of 2006, when he celebrated his 40th Wedding Anniversary with a trip to Florida with his family.

Gary is survived by his wife, Joann; son, Mike (Tammy) Goecks; daughter, Susan (Kim) Trotter; four granddaughters, Miranda and Celina Trotter, Morganne and Alexis Goecks; parents, Emil and Doris Goecks; brothers, Dennis (Kathy) Goecks, Steve (Robyn) Goecks and many nieces, nephews and friends. He is predeceased by a sister, Sandra M. Goecks on March 30, 1967, and his grandparents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, September 15, 2008 at 11 a.m. at St. Victor Catholic Church. Celebrant will be Father Michael E. Klarer, with burial in Calvary Cemetery in Monroe. A visitation will be held on Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Shriner-Hager-Gohlke Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in Gary's memory.