Gary Edwin Ramsey

Gary Edwin Ramsey, a beloved long-time resident of Rhinelander, WI, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 25, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born in South Milwaukee, WI on October 20, 1937, to John Gail Ramsey and Pearl Marie Ramsey. Gary was a caring, kind-hearted, and generous person and will be missed by all.

Following his graduation from South Milwaukee High School in 1956, Gary entered the Army Reserves. In 1973, he permanently moved with his family to Rhinelander where he became owner of Sunset Resort (with his wife Alma) and co-owner of the Pied Piper Supper Club. For over 20 years he brought his passion for hospitality to all that visited the resort and the restaurant. Even in later life, Gary continued to enjoy tending bar and socializing with people from far and near.

Throughout his life, he was passionate in all he did to support the community through regular blood donation with the American Red Cross, his leadership with the Tavern League of Wisconsin, and the Oneida County Tavern League. In recognition of his servant leadership, Gary received numerous awards and accolades including Outstanding Tavern League Member, United Way Outstanding Contribution to our Community Award, and Honorary Lifetime Membership in the Oneida County Tavern league.

On a personal level, Gary immensely enjoyed the Green Bay Packers/Wisconsin Badger football games, annual Hodag Country Music Festival, traveling, camping, golfing, and an occasional visit to a local casino. But his greatest passion was for his family – cherishing every moment with those he loved so dearly. He was even known to boast over a robust game of penny ante poker with his immediate family during the holidays.

Gary is survived by his children, Dr. Patrick Ramsey (Sarah) and Shawn Ramsey (Kelly Staerzl); his brother Jack Ramsey (Theresa); his stepchildren, Christina Peterson (Joe), Renae Eades, Scott Eades, Brian Blattler, and Missy Lee; and his many siblings-in-law, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife Alma Ramsey, second wife Carol Ramsey, his parents, his brother Ronald Ramsey and sister Joanne Schreier. Gary will be missed by all who knew and were touched by Gary’s caring nature and compassion.

A service and celebration of Gary’s life planned in Rhinelander, WI at Carlson Funeral Home in late spring/early summer with burial at Northland Memorial Park (additional details to follow).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Ramsey Memorial fund (https://everloved.com/life-of/gary-ramsey/) to support establishment of a scholarship for Rhinelander High School seniors pursuing advanced education in hospitality services.

The Porter Loring North Funeral Home (210) 4957-8221 is handling the local mortuary care and Carlson Funeral Home (715) 369-1414 is handling the ceremonial service arrangements for the family in Rhinelander.

You may leave your private condolences for the Ramsey family at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/porter-loring or www.carlsonfh.com.