Guy E. Mockler, 71

Guy E. Mockler, 71, of Custer, passed away Jan. 2, 2025, at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King.

Guy was born June 16, 1953, in Madison to Theodore “Ted” and Marian (née Larson) Mockler. In 1957, his family relocated to Stevens Point, and in 1969 they purchased a family farm in Custer. His father, a Boy Scout leader, introduced Guy to scouting, which sparked his lifelong love of the outdoors. Guy was an avid skier while attending P.J. Jacobs High School, graduating in 1971 with the school’s final graduating class before the opening of Stevens Point Area Senior High.

While in high school, Guy was one of the few students who owned a car. One day, he gave a ride home to Gail Suchowski, who would later become his wife. The two reconnected in 2003 and married on Jan. 28, 2006, in Las Vegas. Guy liked to tease Gail that she was the only girl who didn’t give him a kiss after getting a ride in his car. That same car led to an enduring friendship with Larry and Babe, hitchhikers he picked up along the way.

In 1973, Guy enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving his country for 40 years. He worked as a naval air crewman and flight engineer aboard the P-3 Orion and even collaborated with NASA in Alaska. Guy was a dedicated member of several military organizations, including the VFW, American Legion, PLAV, and DAV, and provided military honors at funerals. He was also active in the American Legion Riders, ABATE, and the Elks Lodge. Despite his busy schedule, he managed to find his way from one funeral service to another, thanks to his trusty phone and GPS.

Guy balanced his military service with an adventurous life. He enjoyed skiing, hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, and boating. He also raced snowmobiles, cars, and motorcycles—an interest sparked by his friend Larry. Guy was known for his love of exploring new places, whether while stationed in the military or during personal travels.

In addition to his military and adventurous pursuits, Guy spent time helping others. He worked at Lake Mead, bartended, and assisted Larry in building houses. After marrying Gail, the couple lived in Stevens Point, where they owned a duplex and became friends with their tenant Rich, with whom Guy enjoyed hunting. In 2013, Guy and Gail moved to their newly built home in the country.

Guy is survived by his wife, Gail; his best friend, Larry; and extended family members Erica Daniels, Robin Daniels, Kortney Daniels, Pat and Jerry (Bo) Boenski and family, and Jim and Cindy Suchowski and family. He is also survived by his many Navy friends and members of his military organizations.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Marian, and his niece, Kelly.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to Aspirus, Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, and Heartland Hospice for their compassionate care. “I have nothing but praise for all they have done and still continue to do!” Gail said.

A burial will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, May 16, 2025, at the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in King. A celebration of life will follow from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Backwoods Pavilion, 1511 N. 2nd Dr., Stevens Point.

Shuda Funeral Chapel is assisting the family. Online condolences may be offered at www.shudafuneral.com.