Larry R. Gavel

Mr. Gavel was born on June 21, 1931, in Malden, Massachusetts, and was the son of the late Victor and Eileen Gavel.

After graduating high school at Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, Larry went on to Washington University in St Louis, and graduated with honors, earning a Master’s Degree in Business. He began working in the family owned business, Gaywood Manufacturing, a leather goods manufacturer in the early 1950’s. Larry, possessing a strong moral compass during a time of racial segregation, integrated the family business of fifty-plus employees. Gaywood Manufacturing became the first factory in St Louis, Missouri to be integrated.

In 1988 Larry married Kathie (Buser) Rodriquez in Mequon Wisconsin. It was easy to see that theirs was a love that was meant to be, and their devotion to each other lasted 35 years.

Larry enjoyed travel, classical music, wine, a good book and his fervor for learning something new never ended. He loved tinkering in his workshop. He had a place in his heart for his horses and all beloved pets.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Dale.

Larry is survived by his wife, Kathie. He is survived by his sister Beverly Gavel of Colorado, and brother David Gavel of Missouri. He is survived by his children David Rodriquez of Port Washington, WI, Chris Rodriquez of Staunton, VA, and Jennifer Winbourne of Auburn, NH and grandchildren James, Emmett, Anna and Eli. He is further survived by children Viki, Lauri and Mike of California and Amy of Minnesota.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.