Obituary | Richard “Duke” Gagan, 88, of West Bend, Wi

Duke was raised on a farm in St. Michael’s until the age of 13.  He graduated from West Bend High School in 1954.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from Marquette University in 1958, where he was still a fervent basketball fan. He immediately began working at Amity Leather, where he spent his entire 38-year career.

Duke was a lifelong golfer, and a very involved member of the West Bend Country Club.  There he was a proud member of The Legends, a senior men’s golf group.   Duke was also an avid gardener, tending to his beautiful flowers on a daily basis.

Duke was united in marriage with Suzanne (nee Rice) Gagan for 55 years until her death in 2013, and was the loving father of their son, Daniel Gagan. He was a dear brother to the late James (Phyllis) Gagan, and to Mary (Eric) Cunningham, as well as fond brother-in-law to Brian (Rosemary) Rice.  He was beloved by many nieces and nephews.

Duke was united in marriage in 2015 to his beloved wife, Janet (Schneiberg) Gagan.  He was truly cherished by her sisters and brothers-in-law, and her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Duke’s Irish charm, magnificent smile, subtle humor, and kind nature made him a loyal and dear friend to many.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Froedtert Milwaukee for their care and compassion.

Visitation will be at Holy Angels Catholic Church (138 N. 8th Avenue, West Bend, WI) on Tuesday, October 15th from 2:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.  Mass following at 4:30 p.m.  Private family interment the next day at Washington County Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Holy Angels School in West Bend, or The Bend Theater in West Bend.