Gerald "Gerry" J. Kuhr

Gerald “Gerry” James Kuhr, 68, of Stevens Point, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at Living Oaks – The Willows Assisted Living in Iola, surrounded by his caregivers, wife, and St. Croix Hospice. He lost his battle with dementia after four years and was born into the Kingdom of God. Gerald has been released from his earthly pains into a restored and healthy body.

He was born to the late Gerald and Elaine (Nockerts) Kuhr on May 15, 1958, in Neenah. Gerry enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and graduated from Escondido High School in California while in basic training. After completing his basic training, he was stationed at Camp Pendleton as a Mortarman. “You yell, we shell – you order, we mortar!” Gerald rose through the ranks to NCO Corporal and was awarded medals as he progressed even though he sustained an eye injury during training. He was able to see the world while in the Marines which included places like San Diego, Hawaii, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Okinawa, Tinian, Guam, and Tijuana. He took Navy ships to wherever they were needed. “Death before dishonor!” “You are as brave as a tiger and as splendid as a dragon.” Gerry finished his service in the military by serving in the reserves for two years out of Kansas.

Gerry completed AA in Union Grove and graduated in 2003 from the program. He remained strong during that time, and all were proud of him. Some judged without being compassionate and forgiving him. Gerry was always willing to forgive. He also attended Gateway Technical College (2008) and Fox Valley Technical College (2009) working on oral communication degrees related to counselling. He received two associate degrees from his time attending technical college.

Gerald met his future wife, Diane (Rucinski) Ryskiewicz, online and they were married on August 15, 2015, at Our Saviors Polish National Catholic Church by Father Marion Talaga. Together they enjoyed camping, fishing, and occasional trips to the casino for entertainment. He also enjoyed exploring the state parks and getting together with family for different activities. In addition to gaining a wife, Gerry also became a step-grandfather of six and blended well with Diane’s family. Diane also blended well with his family. He always had a smile for his step-kids and step-grandkids. He often talked about missing his parents, the love of his sister, Susan, and all the support from his brother, Tom.

Over the years Gerry held many jobs after his time in the Marines. Those included landscaper, security guard, and temporary laborer for many companies that needed the extra help. He worked independently and also was the line lead at Flexo Solutions on the bake line where they made commercial window shades. He retired in 2023.

Survivors include his wife, Diane; brother, Thomas Kuhr (Lisa Fransway); nephew, Brent; sister, Susan (John) Koskinen; brother, Mr. and Mrs. Bob (Kandi) Kuhr; nephews, Mike (Jennifer) Kuhr and Joshua Kuhr; great-nieces, Hannah and Ilsa; and many cousins. Gerry is further survived by his goddaughter, Stacey Urch; step-family, Michael and Lisa Ryskiewicz of Stevens Point, Jennifer (Eric) Paulson of Gilmanton and their daughters, Quinn and Ellis, Sheila (Ross) Nevienski of Mosinee, and their children, Andrew, Grace, Matthew, and Eli.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Hog Creek Bar and Grill, 143203 Highway 153, Mosinee. Family and friends may gather beginning at 10:30 a.m. with lunch served at 12:00 p.m. The burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026, in the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, N2666 County Road QQ, King, with full military honors.

Gerry was loved and cared for by the caregivers there and the St. Croix Hospice program. There were short visits from the nurses. Too many names to list not wanting to overlook anyone. Smiles, handholding, hygiene care, compassion, and careful observation. With Diane's direction, the girls were allowed to talk of Jesus. It calmed him towards the end. They were wonderful girls and told Gerry he was loved. The director at the Willows, Shawna, should be recognized for her leadership and her ability to even put Diane at ease during this time.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com. Please add stories and pictures to share on the website and in the memorial book.