Gary Thomas Smukal's Obituary
Gary Thomas Smukal Obituary Updated 04/06/21
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Gary Thomas Smukal - 4th generation German-American DOB: 04/06/1952 in Baraboo, Wisconsin
DOD: 12/18/2015
Gary T. Smukal unexpectedly passed away on Friday, December 18, 2015 at Eden Medical Center, Castro Valley, CA. He was 63 years old. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Teresa J. Smukal; sister, Amy Behlke (Randy, brother-in-law); brother, Eric Smukal; sister-in-law, Debra J. Snow; three nephews: Charlie R. Snow, Ryan Behlke, and Riley Behlke, and numerous Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins in Wisconsin. Proceeded in death by his mother, father, and grandparents.
Gary was born at St. Mary’s Hospital in Baraboo on April 6. 1952, the son of Luther and Jean (Premo) Smukal. Gary and his family moved from Baraboo, WI to De Pere, WI in 1962. He graduated East De Pere High School in 1970.
Gary started his post-secondary education, at Valparaiso, IN. After his accident. He completed his Associate Degree in micro-precision technology / watch repair at Parkland College in Champaign/Urbana, IL.
Prior to graduation, Gary was recruited by AMPEX Corporation in Redwood City, CA. While employed with AMPEX, he produced an item that was later patented for AMPEX.
In 1979, between graduation and employment with AMPEX, Gary represented the USA at the Para Olympics Games in Canada, both in archery and table tennis.
During the summer of 1989, when his sister and brother were visiting, Gary met his future wife, Teresa, at a church picnic. Gary and Teresa were married the following year on April 28, 1990.
Gary's love of music was woven throughout the creative fabric of his life. He played left-handed guitar, recorder, flute, violin, trumpet, and penny whistle. Gary also composed music, and sang in several musical groups during his life. Gary encouraged many of us to look for joy in the smallest of things.
Gary became a tissue donor to the Donor Network West.
His memorial, to be held in Wisconsin, will be postponed until June 2016.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Donor Network West, mailed to:
Donor Network West
12667 Alcosta Blvd. Suite 500
San Ramon, CA 94583 Or, visit their website at: www.donornetworkwest.org/contributions
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