Gary A. Taylor

Gary A. Taylor, age 82, passed away peacefully April 5, 2026, at his home in Rhinelander, surrounded by his loving family.

Born July 19, 1943, in Antigo, Gary was the son of John and Lorraine (Zwicky) Taylor. After moving to Rhinelander at age 5, he graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1961. Shortly thereafter, on August 29, 1962, he married Barbara (Neal) Taylor, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned 64 years.

Gary began his career as an apprentice steam fitter and plumber before helping to found and operate several mechanical engineering businesses alongside his father and brother: Rhinelander Plumbing & Heating, Lakewood Mechanical Contractors, LoBar Supply, and Lakeland Enterprises. Lakeland Enterprises was later sold to James Peterson Construction of Medford, in 2005, marking Gary’s retirement after decades of hard work and commitment to his profession.

An avid outdoorsman throughout his life, Gary found deep joy in hunting and the beauty of nature. In 2008, he was honored by the Theodore Roosevelt Boone and Crockett Club for achieving a lifelong goal — harvesting a record 19-point non-typical whitetail deer in Saskatchewan, Canada. He was also a loyal Green Bay Packers fan, cheering passionately through every season.

Gary will be profoundly missed by his family: his daughter Debbie (Chris), his son Gary (Lisa), granddaughters Missy and Angie (James), great-granddaughter Bella, and his brother Tom (Judy). He was preceded in death by his parents, John (1985) and Lorraine (2012); and his son Greg (1967).

The family will gather for a private burial. A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on August 9, 2026, from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Holiday Acres on Lake Thompson, near his longtime home.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in Gary's name, and any gifts may be directed to his family. You may leave your private condolences for the Taylor family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is serving the Taylor family.