Gavin M. Scott, 59

Gavin M. Scott, a beloved resident and passionate fisherman known for his infectious laugh and love of trivia, died May 9, 2024, at his home after a short battle with cancer. He was 59.

Born Jan. 5, 1965, in East Orange, N.J., to the late Gerald and Barbara (Serra) Scott, Scott’s early years were spent in Florence, S.C., where he developed a lifelong love of fishing and the outdoors. He moved to Wheaton, Ill., in 1977, graduating from Wheaton North High School in 1983.

Drawn to Wisconsin’s natural beauty, Scott relocated to Stevens Point in 1983 to study Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He quickly embraced the city as his home, forging deep friendships that lasted over four decades.

An enthusiastic angler, Scott’s passion for carp fishing became legendary in the Stevens Point community. He was a frequent winner of the Riverfront Rendezvous Carp Tournament and earned the distinction of being the only licensed carp guide in the state.

Beyond fishing, Scott was a voracious reader with a particular interest in history, especially World War II. He also had a fondness for “B” movies, 70s disco music, and telling jokes that often pushed the boundaries of good taste. His eclectic interests led him to become a collector of comic books, coins, autographs, stamps, and movie memorabilia.

Scott was a well-known figure in the local trivia scene, participating in the “World’s Largest Trivia Contest” in Stevens Point for over 35 years. His encyclopedic knowledge of obscure facts often contributed to his team’s impressive finishes in the top 10 out of hundreds of competitors. He participated in what would be his final contest in April 2024.

While known for his strong will and occasional stubbornness, Scott was also deeply generous, loyal, and kind-hearted. He possessed a sharp wit and a unique ability to share his knowledge and passion for fishing with others. He even officiated the weddings of several close friends, including Mayor Mike and Chris Wiza, Madison Wiza, and Kellen Ferkey, and John and Marge Diser.

Scott is survived by his brother Gerald (Patricia) Scott of St. Charles, Mo., brother Andrew (Laura) Scott of Wheaton, Ill., niece and nephews Alexis Serrurier (Tom), AJ, Ian, and Colin, great nephews Griffin and Theodore Serrurier, and a wide circle of friends who will miss his infectious laughter and generous spirit.

A celebration of Scott’s life will be held June 8 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Moose Family Center in Stevens Point. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Friends of 90FM or the American Cancer Society in his name.

Pisarski Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be submitted at www.pisarskifuneralhome.com.