George William Goetsch

George William Goetsch, 87, of Oulu, WI, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, at St. Mary’s Essentia Health Hospital in Duluth, MN. Born on February 28, 1938, in Iron River, WI, George lived a life full of faith, family, and service.

A 1956 graduate of South Shore High School, George proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, completing two tours aboard an aircraft carrier. After his military service, he began his career in Milwaukee, first selling shoes and later working at Allen Bradley. In 1971, George returned to his roots on the family farm in Oulu, where he built a life centered on hard work and community. For three years, he worked at Lind Well Drilling, and for nearly 50 years, he was employed by Hood Equipment. George also served as the long-time assessor for the Town of Oulu. He coached Babe Ruth Baseball for the Oulu Blue Jays, sharing his love of the game with countless young athletes.

George married the love of his life, Donna Koeppler, in 1964, and together they shared 61 wonderful years. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished time with his family—especially at Long Lake. George loved golfing, skiing (both water and downhill), bowling, hunting, fishing, and spending winters in Texas enjoying the warmth and water. He was happiest watching his children and grandchildren play sports, relaxing on the beach with a good book, and sharing meals with loved ones.

Known for his kindness, humor, and unwavering faith, George touched the lives of everyone he met. He had an extraordinary gift for fixing anything— his family often joking that he could repair things with just a wave of his hand. A man of integrity, he allowed the Lord to guide his life and loved his wife and family unconditionally.

George is survived by his beloved wife Donna; children: Tammy (Ryan) Deering, Craig Goetsch, Peter (Elizabeth) Goetsch, Josh (Heather) Goetsch, and Kate (Bill) Tuura; grandchildren: Nick (Morgan) Deering, Cole (Lindsay) Deering, Serena Goetsch, Micah Goetsch, Jessi (Jake Patridge) Deering, McKenzie (Tim) Schulz, Leigh Goetsch, Paige (Nate Prebelski) Tuura, Ella Goetsch, Thor Tuura, Jordan Goetsch, and Caleb Goetsch; great-grandchildren: Owen, Levi, Tate Deering, and Beau Deering; siblings: Phebe Wilson, Mary Stirn, Amanda Doe, Joe Goetsch, Lucille Sidener, and Nancy Goetsch; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents George and Alice Goetsch; siblings: Kathy Wilde, Betty Sidener, Bruce Goetsch; and special cousin Frank Goetsch.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Grace Baptist Church, 4810 S Bear Paw Rd in Iron River, WI. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor James Walsh officiating.

George lived a life of love, laughter, and faith. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.