Gary Thomas Sokel

Gary T. Sokel, age 52, of Menasha, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 29, 2013. On August 7, 1960, Gary Thomas was born in Neenah to the late Robert and Suzanne (Jape) Sokel. Gary had worked as a truck driver for George Whiting Paper Company. For his entire life, Gary enjoyed spending time in Northwoods hunting and fishing. He also had a great talent for woodworking and drawing. Recently, Gary turned into a master chef. He loved to cook for his family and spend as much time with them as he could. He was very good at imitating Elvis songs, especially “Heartbreak Hotel.” Gary was always willing to lend a helping hand and would give you the shirt off his back.

Gary will be greatly missed by his loving children: Justin (Michelle) Solis, Kristy (Matt) Kerkhoff, Sara (fiancé, Michael Hinske) Sokel, Michelle (significant other, Charlie Peeters) Sokel; his grandchildren: Layne and Lena Solis, Henry Kerkhoff, and Weston Hinske; his brother, Robert (Debra) Sokel; his sisters: Deborah (Terrence) Honick-Korth and Mary Korth; and many other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Cynthia Hahnen; a brother-in-law, William Honick, and a niece, Jennifer Honick.

A Memorial Service will be held at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, April 3, 2013, at Martens-Laemmrich Funeral Home, 312 Milwaukee Street, Menasha. A Memorial Gathering will be held from 3:30 pm until the time of the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.