Gary "Fritzie" Rautmann

Gary Lee (Fritzie) Rautmann, of Sheboygan, WI., passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 20, 2022.

Gary was born on September 23, 1953 in Plymouth to the late Frederick and Bernetta (Gorsege) Rautmann.  He spent the majority of his childhood on the family homestead in the Town of Herman.  A 1974 graduate from Howards Grove High School, he participated in the Chess Club as well as the football, basketball and baseball teams.

Almost immediately after high school, Gary began an outstanding 44 year career at Johnsonville Meats.  An extremely dedicated employee, Gary worked whenever and wherever he was needed as the company saw remarkable growth.  His responsibilities and time spent at work grew as the company grew.  His family and friends would frequently comment that even the owners took a day off on occasion.

When Gary finally found some time to relax, he was part of several bowling and softball teams, played in the best Super Bowl pool he could find, tried to grow the biggest tomatoes and became a frequent golfer at Quit Qui Oc Golf Club

Gary retired in 2018 and was either golfing with his buddies or travelling with Becky Ryba who had long become his one true soulmate.  The two enjoyed trips to the Florida Keys, the Great Smokie Mountains, the Kentucky Derby, the American Southwest and circling Lake Superior to name just a few adventures of the past few years.

He was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers and whatever golf tournament was on the television.  He would also debate others in political topics.  He frequently checked the stock market and fancied himself a financial analyst.  His family and friends knew his real pride was actually in how much money he could save.

Gary was survived by his mother Bernetta, sisters Lynne and Jodi (David) Nett, a brother Bruce and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father Frederick and sister Lois Vines.  He was further survived by his soulmate Becky and her siblings Joe (Kathy) Ryba, Carolyn (Mike) Kastelic, Tom (Penny) Ryba, Mary Heller, Donna (Tubby) Reseburg and Bruce (Rene) Ryba. He was further preceded in death by Becky's parents Orv and Thelma (Peanuts) Ryba.

There will be a celebration of Gary’s life at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, September 27th, at Zimmer Westview Funeral and Cremation Care Center, W2132 Garton Rd. in Howards Grove.  Family will greet visitors on Tuesday at the funeral home from 2:00 PM until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for Gary.

To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.zimmerfuneralhome.com