Elmer E. Gayhart, Jr., 77, of Medford, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2020 at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau.
Elmer was born on January 3, 1943 to Elmer Sr. and Cecelia (Hilden) Gayhart in Wabeno, WI. He attended Wabeno Schools and UW-Oshkosh. He graduated from Milwaukee School of Engineering with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He married Dorothy M Lois at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in New Munster on October 30, 1965; she survives.
Elmer worked for Evinrude Motors in Milwaukee, before moving to Medford in 1972. Once in Medford he worked for Conseco and later, Enerquip. He then started his own business, Central Design Inc., which allowed him to travel the world, before retiring in 1998.
In retirement, Elmer still worked side jobs on old projects from Central Design. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, time at the cabin, reading, and spending time with his family and friends. His grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was a huge Green Bay Packer fan and an avid sportsman, which he passed down to his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed playing softball for many years and wild game feeds that he would put on with Dorothy. He will always be remembered for his infectious laugh and larger than life personality.
In addition to his wife, Dorothy, Elmer is survived by his children, Lisa M. (John) Shear of Medford, Renee A. Gayhart of Juneau, AK; grandchildren, Mikaila G. Shear of Oshkosh, John F. Shear of Wausau, Alec M. Shear of La Crosse, and Gavin Gayhart Millard of Juneau, AK; sister-in-law Janice Gayhart of Kewaunee; brothers-in-law Leonard (Carol) Lois, James (Marilyn) Lois, and Donald Lois, all of Burlington. Elmer is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Nancy Vanderbur, and brother, James Gayhart.
A memorial service for Elmer will take place at 11:00 on Friday, October 30, 2020 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, with Father Patrick McConnell officiating. Visitation will take place on Friday, October, 30, 2020 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM.
Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.
