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Cris Gapko Obituary (2021) – Kenosha, WI

Cris L. “Wackky” Gapko

1944-2021

MERRILL – Cris L. “Wackky” Gapko, 76, of Merrill, passed away on Monday April 5, 2021 of natural causes at his home.

Cris was born on October 12, 1944 in Kenosha to the late Matthias and Marie (Jensen) Gapko. He married Karen S. Tucker and she preceded his death on October 6, 2005. Cris then met Debra (Zahn) Stadler and the two married on July 9, 2011. She survived.

Cris was a body repair technician at Kolbe & Kolbe in Wausau. He enjoyed gardening, riding a Harley, hunting and fishing. He took pride in raising his hobby farm animals, birds, peacocks and the fish in his pond. He was known for his “Wackky Spicy Olives” and the great meals he created on the grill. Cris enjoyed the time in the hut and on the pontoon boat. Wonderful memories have been created from many vacation destinations over the years. More than anything else, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends. “Wackky” was a local legend because of his unique personality and friendly spirit.

Cris is survived by his wife, Debra Stadler-Gapko from Merrill; his mother-in-law Leila Marnholtz von Merrill; his stepsons: Jason (Nancy) Stadler and Craig Stadler from Merrill and Chad Stadler from Eau Claire; his shanks: Trevor, Cameron, Hunter, Dawson, and Danika; his siblings: Steven (Eleanor) Gapko from Racine, Jean (Darrell) Kreuser from Pleasant Prairie, Barbara (Dave) Koleske from Minooka, IL, and Judy (Dave) Lang from Crystal Lake, IL; and many nephews and nieces, including his special nephew Brandy Kreuser of Pleasant Prairie. Cris is still survived by Debbie’s family: Becky (Roger) Hinner, Gloria (John) Schenzel, both from Merrill, Terri (Bill) Knorr from Appleton, Jeff (Gail) Zahn and Randy (Rachel) Zahn from Merrill.

Cris was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Karen; Sisters: Annie, Marilyn, and Marge; and brothers: Michael, Richard, Robert, Jerry and Jim.

A Celebration of Life takes place on Sunday, May 2, 2021, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Kathy and Cal’s Club 64 in Merrill.

Merrill, Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, supports the family. Online condolences can be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

Special thanks to: the 911 operator, EMTs, Lincoln County Sheriff Responders, Paul Proulx, Rick Stine and staff. We all tried our best, but it was Cris’ time to go. – Debbie

Published by Kenosha News on April 9, 2021.

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