Thomas John Gaukel, age 84, passed away October 27, 2018.  He was born on Saturday, January 13, 1934 in Sauk City, WI. Tom was the youngest of four children born to M. Louise (Koch) and Frank J Gaukel.  At the age of two Tom moved with his family to Fish Lake where they raised dachshunds and opened a family summer resort.  After graduating from Sauk City High School in 1952 Tom entered the Army where he served in the 82nd Airborne as a paratrooper and spent two years in Japan.

On September 3, 1955 Tom was thrilled to marry the love of his life, Ann Lochner.  Three days later he began his long college education. After earning a bachelor's degree at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater he would go on to earn two additional degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

A lifelong educator, Tom was a pioneer in the development of programs for mentally handicapped students.  Working closely with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, he worked with many school districts to establish standardized curriculum for Special Education programs.

After retirement, Tom and Ann enjoyed living in a home they built on Fish Lake.  Tom was involved with the 82nd Airborne Veterans organization, eventually serving as president of the Wisconsin chapter and proudly hosting the national convention.  Ann and Tom moved to Baraboo in 2007 and thoroughly enjoyed their time there together.

Those who knew Tom appreciated his intellect and his dry sense of humor.  He and Ann were gracious and generous hosts and loved to entertain in their home.

Tom is survived by Ann, daughters Katherine (Barry) Johnson of Minnetonka, MN, Grandsons Connor, Graham (Leah) and Roon Johnson, Great-grandsons Oliver and Moby Johnson; Jane (Neil) Bethke of Arlington Heights, IL; Grandchildren Eliot, Isabel and Violet Bethke; Constance (David) Stumbras of Chicago, IL; Granddaughters Katrina Stumbras, Morgan (Tim) Russo, and Lucia Stumbras; Sister Helen A. Straw,  twenty one nieces,  twenty two nephews, many cousins, friends and his beloved Golden Retriever, Boo.

Special thanks to Agrace Hospice, Dr. John "Dusty" Koch, Joe and Jeanette Gaukel.

A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, November 17, 2018 at 11:00 at St Norbert's Catholic Church in Roxbury, WI.  In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials to Special Olympics of Wisconsin.