George L. Baird

LODI/FT. MYERS, FL - George L. Baird, at 73, passed away peacefully from Multiple Myeloma on Sat. June 11, 2016 at Agrace HospiceCare. He was born Nov. 7, 1942 in Wausau, to George W. and Elaine Baird. His father First Lieutenant George died during WWII defending his country. His mother later met and married Victor O. Gaulke, and together they raised George and his younger brother Greg. George is a 1970 graduate of UW Eau Claire with an accounting degree. He married Lavora Kufahl on Jan. 6, 1962 in Wausau. He furthered his education and earned accreditation as a Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM). He worked in the finance area for the State of Wisconsin for 39 years. After retirement, George and Lavora enjoyed winters in Florida. As a boy, George rose to the rank of Eagle Scout and was a member of the Order of the Arrow. He was a member of both the Wisconsin and Sarasota Trap Shooting Association and was an avid participant in the sport. He also enjoyed downhill skiing. As a member of the Madison Ski Club for 28 years he participated in numerous ski trips with his wife and friends from the Madison Ski Club. He also enjoyed family get togethers and was bles...[more]

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to have the whole family together this past Christmas. He also enjoyed boating and motorcycling. George is survived by his wife of 54 years Lavora, daughter Tamara (Bruce) Sakrison, son Brian (Jennifer) Baird, grandson Shane Sakrison, brother Gregory Gaulke, and further survived by other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and a grandson Tyler Sakrison. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday June 16, 2016 at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Rd. Madison. Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery, and a luncheon at the funeral home will follow the burial. Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM on Wednesday June 15, 2016 at the funeral home, and also from 10:00 AM until the service at the funeral home on Thursday. The family suggests that memorials may be made to the UW Carbone Cancer Center, 600 Highland Ave, K4/646, Madison, WI 53792-6164, or the Ice Age Trail. 2110 Main St, Cross Plains, WI 53528. George was always thankful, kind and respectful. We love him and will miss him a lot. Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 3610 Speedway Road Madison 608-238-3434