Clayton P. Ganser, age 84, passed away on April 9, 2021.  At the time of Clayton's death, he was surrounded by his special group of family and friends sharing stories of how he touched their lives. Clayton was born on February 22, 1937 to Elmer "Bummy" and Marie (Lamberty) Ganser.  He grew up and continued living on the Fish Lake Farm his entire life.  Clayton was married to his dear friend Lorraine Tillou on Oct. 11, 1984.

Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Marie Ganser, loving wife Lorraine Ganser and  his brother Jerome.  Born into the Fish Lake Ganser family, Clayton continued a tradition of integrity and honor while helping and caring for all who crossed his path.  Clayton's handshake was a solid commitment and left all who met him a better person.  Clayton and his parents owned the infamous "Ganser Dance Hall," where many Sauk Prairie couples met during the depression. The log bar at the dance hall was frequently visited by friends and families for years.  He dedicated his life to caring for his family farm and the preservation of the family property.  Clayton's passion was tending to the many animals on the farm, most of whom were affectionately called by name.  His gift with animals led to a deep connection with the local deer that checked in with him as he drove up the farm road.  Fish Lake Resort supplied many seasonal campers with the opportunity to enjoy time with their families and friends in the outdoors. Several generations of families have continued camping, sharing conversations and listening to Clayton's abundant stories.

A special thank you to the Schoepp family for the many years of partnering with Clayton on the farm; Neil Schoepp, wife Ellen, and other family members embraced Clayton with their kindness.  Claytons' joys in his final years included Friday Fish Frys with his cousin Mike Lamberty and his sweet wife Pam.  Hanging out and making mischief with his Buddies Jeff Clemens and Marc Watson while cutting wood and working on the farm.  Clayton enjoyed his special visits, help, and daily telephone calls from his friend and step son, Jerry Reynolds and his wife Sandi.  Clayton would join his friend Sue Truitt while digging wild flowers, and sharing memories of his past.  Claytons care provider and dearest friend, Ann Drury did the best job by far supporting him at the farm and taking him on his daily scenic drives around the rural country roads checking out road kills and keeping count of the deer, turkey, and other critters.  God blessed us with the grace of this incredible man.  All who knew him will be forever grateful for his presence in our lives.  Clayton will be missed, but most of all, he will be remembered.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:30 am on Saturday, Apr. 17, 2021 at St. Norbert's Catholic Church, Roxbury.  Interment will follow in the church cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 11:15 am at Hooverson Funeral Home, 251 Water St., Sauk City the morning of mass.

So Clayton, tomorrow when you wake up and do your daily checking of the obituary to see if you need to "get going" on your chores, you can now rest in peace. Chores are done.

Online condolences may be made at hooversonfuneralhomes.com