Gary Marx

Gary (Groucho) James Marx, 70, of Scandinavia, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. He was born on February 4, 1955, in Kewaskum to the late Joseph and Gertrude (Theusch) Marx. On November 14, 1981, Gary married the love of his life, Jane (Van Abel) Marx, in Hollandtown. They shared 43 years of marriage.

Gary and Jane first met at UW Oshkosh, where their first date was bowling. While at Oshkosh, Gary played both football and baseball. He graduated in 1978 and went on to work for Blue Cross Blue Shield, Krause Publications, and IBM. Silver Lake Lanes brought Gary and Jane to the Scandinavia area, where they spent many cherished days between ball fields and bowling alleys. He loved to spin a story, entertaining his family with childhood tales of hitting home runs in Boltonville and helping the lunch ladies bring food up from the basement, always earning himself an extra treat.

Gary loved the outdoors-hunting, fishing, golfing, gardening, and grilling. When winter came, he welcomed the peace of the shack and the warmth of a fire, often snowshoeing through the woods or settling in with a good puzzle. His perfect day started with coffee and a crossword, followed by a summer sausage sandwich and soup for lunch. His afternoons were often spent mowing grass or working in the woods, topped off, of course, with a burger on the grill and an ice-cold beer.

Gary loved his family fiercely. He was a proud husband, father, and grandfather. After Charlie passed, he always said his best friend was Lucy, the family dog. He never missed a game and had a reputation for legendary tailgates. His smile-warm and unforgettable-lit up every gathering. The places he treasured most included Elmer's Pond, the Chippewa Flowage, and Oak Lake.

His devotion to the community was just as strong. Gary served as town supervisor and chairman for over 30 years. He loved being a volunteer firefighter, treasuring the camaraderie and holding deep respect for the people and the work, especially his BFF Bryan. He gave generously of his time to countless community fundraising events. He tended to the town just as he did to his family-with kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication.

Gary is survived by his wife, Jane; his children: Jack (Nikki) Marx, Joe (Ashley) Marx, Anne Marx, and Mary Marx; and his grandchildren: Rosie and Leo Marx, and Mason and Ava Marx. He is also survived by his brothers Jerry (Patty) Marx and Robert Marx; his sister-in-law June Marx; and his brothers-in-law Tim (Nancy) Van Abel, Mike (Diane) Van Abel, John (JoAnn) Van Abel, and Patrick (Kristie) Van Abel. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jocko, his in-laws Wilfred and Duff Van Abel, and his brother-in-law Jerry Van Abel.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Sunday, September 7, from 1:30-4:00 p.m. at Voie Funeral Home, 120 S. Main Street, Iola. Dinner and drinks will follow at Silver Lake Lanes.

The family wishes to thank the first responders of the Scandinavia Fire Department, Iola Fire and Ambulance, Weyauwega Fire Department, and the Waupaca County Sheriff's Department.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Scandinavia Fire Department.