Gerald T. "Bud" Bakalars

Gerald T. “Bud” Bakalars went into eternal life on Sunday August 6, 2017 with his family by his side. Gerry was born on November 5 ^th , 1934 in La Crosse Wisconsin to Theodore and Rudella (Burke) Bakalars. He is survived by his sons Matthew (Lynn) Bakalars of Oshkosh and Michael (Kim) Bakalars of Verona along with his grandsons Joe and Alex Bakalars, sister Dolores (Lloyd) Wuensch of Onalaska, brother Steven (Darlene) Bakalars of Lake Mills and brother in law, Jim Schneider of West Salem as well as many nephews and nieces that he loved very much. Gerry was preceded in death by parents Theodore and Rudella Bakalars and sister Carol Schneider.

Gerry lived in La Crosse his entire life. As a young boy and young man, he was a passionate fisherman and duck hunter. Gerry was a 1952 graduate of Aquinas High School and attended UW La Crosse. He served his country as active duty U. S. Army and Wisconsin National Guard from 1956 to 1962 earning a S5 rank. Gerry began his working career at Wettsteins as a TV antenna installer and TV repairman. Gerry then started a 42-year career with the Trane Company that was mostly within the purchasing division of the commercial systems unit. His position took him all over the world with extensive travel to Europe and south-east Asia and he loved every minute. Gerry loved to spend time with his family, especially his Grandsons. He loved the many fishing trips he took to Canada with Matt and Lynn and Lynn’s parents Dave and Gayle Gammon. Gerry was also an avid tennis player and skier and was a member to the Ski Patrol at Mt. La Crosse for many years.

The family will receive friends on Monday August 14, 2017 from 10 AM until 11:45 AM at Mary Mother of the Church Parish, 2006 Weston Street, La Crosse. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow which will include eulogies from both of his sons. Rev. Brian D. Konopa will officiate. Burial will be at The Catholic Cemetery of La Crosse with military honors provided by American Legion Post 52 of La Crosse.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to Aquinas High School or the Gunderson Lutheran Medical Foundation