Gary Sidbeck

Neenah, WI

Gary Lee Sidbeck, age 76, of Neenah, WI, formerly of Escanaba, MI, passed away Monday, November 7, 2016 surrounded by family and friends at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Neenah, WI.

Gary was born July 11, 1940 in Escanaba, MI, the son of Arvid Sidbeck and Waltrudis Fish. He was raised and grew up in Escanaba. Growing up he loved playing for the Escanaba Hawks Semi Pro Hockey team. He was proud to be a part of Bob Iverson’s pit crew, loved dirt sprint cars, and truly was drawn to any sort of racing. Gary worked many years as an auto body mechanic at Coyne’s Chevrolet. He was an avid Nascar and Chicago Blackhawks fan. In 1998, he relocated to Neenah Wisconsin with his long time significant other, Darlene Walitalo, of 34 years. In Neenah, Gary worked for five years as a maintenance man for Community First Credit Union.

In addition to his significant other Darlene, Gary is survived by:
2 Sons: Steve Sidbeck of Schaumburg, IL
Michael Sidbeck of Menasha, WI
2 Daughters: Cindy Tackett of Escanaba, MI
Wendy Burnette of Chicago, IL
1 Step-Daughter: Heidi Deiter of Ford River, MI
7 Grandchildren
1 Great Grandchild

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and Step-Son, Todd Walitalo.

Gary’s family will receive friends on Saturday, November 12, 2016 from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. at the Skradski Funeral Home in Escanaba. Funeral services for Gary will begin at 12:00 P.M. at the Skradski Funeral Home in Escanaba with Rev. Fr. Rick Courier officiating. Gary will be laid to rest at Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells, MI