Gary Spencer


Gary A Spencer, 67, of Baraboo, lost his battle with cancer on Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2018, at Angels Grace Hospice in Oconomowoc, surrounded by his children. Son of Mike and Dolly (Elsing) Spencer, he was born Nov. 8, 1950, at St. Mary's Ringling Hospital in Baraboo. He graduated from Baraboo High School in 1968, lettering in football, wrestling, and track. He also had a 10-year amateur boxing career, which included a Golden Glove Championship. Following in the footsteps of both of his parents being Sauk County sheriffs, he worked as a Lake Delton police officer until he became a master plumber in 1976. He worked as a plumber for more than 35 years. Gary was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church and involved with St. Vincent De Paul. He was involved in the Baraboo Wrestling Program for more than 20 years, serving for 10 years as the head of the elementary Baraboo Wrestling Club, as well as spending several years as the head coach of the high school wrestling team. He was inducted into the Baraboo Wrestling Club Hall of Fame in 1996. With the United States Wrestling Team, he traveled to Japan, Hungary and Spain as a Freestyle and Greco Roman assistant coach. Through his coaching, he offered opportunity and inspiration that influenced kids into their adulthood. Gary will be remembered for his love of his children and grandchildren. He cherished the time spent with his eight children, his 14 grandchildren and attending all of their sporting events. He also had a passion for golf and spending time with his friends. His children will never forget his smile, his warmth, or his integrity. He worked harder than anyone they knew, never complained, and always treated everyone with respect. They hope to honor his memory by living their lives with all that he taught them, most of them without even saying a word. He is survived by his daughters, Tracy (Rick) Papandrea, Tricia Spencer; sons, Travis Spencer, Troy (Kate) Spencer, Trent Spencer, Trayton (Nikki) Spencer, Traenor (Stephanie) Spencer; 14 devoted grandchildren; siblings, Robert, Terry, Diane, and Steve Spencer; former spouse Joan Prantner Spencer. He was preceded in death by his son Trevor; his brother Jim. The memorial service will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Feb. 10, 2018, at Redlin Funeral Home, 401 Madison Ave., Baraboo. In lieu of flowers, the family would have donations sent to the Baraboo Wrestling Club.