August 24, 2017 – West Bend, WI – Gaylord S. “HAP” De Witt, 72, of West Bend, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 20, 2017 at his home with his loyal companion Smedley by his side.
He was born on June 24, 1945 in Wisconsin Rapids to the late Harry and Angela De Witt (nee Stamm). Gaylord proudly served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War and worked as a maintenance mechanic for many years. He was known as a very hard worker and an honest man. He was an avid firearm collector and was a member of the National Rifle Association. Gaylord enjoyed studying military history and following up on current events. For many years he had been a member of the Kettle Moraine Sport Riders. He enjoyed attending motorcycle races throughout his life and racing motorcycles in his younger years.
Those whom Gaylord leaves behind to cherish his memory include his daughters, Carey De Witt and Jodi (Joe) Falconer; grandchildren, Deacon and Vayda; sisters Georgene De Witt of West Bend, Toni De Witt of St Augustine, FL and Dawn De Witt of Lake Worth, FL; his beloved dog Smedley; former wife Jane; and many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
The boundaries between life and death are
At best shadowy and vague.
Who shall say where one ends
And where the other begins?
-Edgar Allen Poe
A memorial service in remembrance of Gaylord will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at the Myrhum Patten Miller & Kietzer Funeral Home, 1315 W. Washington St., West Bend.
The family will greet relatives and friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.