Gary Joseph Bouchard

Gary Joseph Bouchard passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026 surrounded by his family.

He was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin on March 22, 1940 to Bernice (Tilkens) and Melvin Bouchard. Gary attended and graduated from Premontre High School. Shortly thereafter, he met his wife of almost 65 years, Donna DeGreef. Gary and Donna would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on June 30th of this year.

He served in the United States Navy until March of 1963, stationed for most of his career in the French Riviera. Once state-side, Gary began working for Konop Vending, where he would

spend his whole career rising from filling vending machines to service manager and retiring after decades with the company.

Gary loved spending time with his family, especially his two brothers, Gene and Glen and his sister, Marilyn. He and Donna were blessed with three children, Kim, Michael and Wendy. Inevitably, any time the Bouchard’s were together, shenanigans ensued. Stories of birthday pranks and unique gifts have become family legend and always generate laughs at holiday celebrations.

Always up for conversation, Gary also enjoyed visiting with friends whether it be at his home in Green Bay, the time he and Donna spent in Florida or near one of the beautiful Wisconsin lakes. They enjoyed many years at their cottage on White Lake in Suring. He welcomed family and friends alike to share time together, usually a cocktail in hand, while cruising the lake in his pontoon boat. Gary enjoyed fishing and hunting with his brothers and did not miss opening deer hunting weekend with Gene and Glen for more than 50 years.

After Gary retired, he worked part-time as a bus driver for First Student. This was a favorite part-time job of his and the kids loved him, as he came home with packages of cookies and candy during the holiday season. On September 22, 2024, Gary, Gene and Glen had the privilege of participating in the Old Glory Honor Flight to Washington D.C. This was one of the best gifts he received, as this time spent with his brothers was unmatched.

Most importantly, Gary will be remembered for his never-ending kindness and willingness to always lend a helping hand, no matter what. He loved a good laugh and the joy of sharing in that laughter with his friends and family.

He will be missed by many including his bride of 64 years, Donna; his son Michael Bouchard and daughter Wendy (Rob) Bouchard-Nelson; his sister Sister Marilyn Bouchard, brothers Gene (Jan) Bouchard and Glen (Judy) Bouchard; his grandson Jae Nelson; his brother-in-law Dennis (Jackie) DeGreef; best friends Bob Jessogne, Dennis Shaw, Tom Weslow and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his daughter, Kim Marie Bouchard; his parents Bernice and Melvin Bouchard; his special Aunt Lorraine and Uncle Buster; and his mother and father-in-law Walter and Milly DeGreef.

The family would like to thank Gary’s dear friend Dennis Shaw for his friendship and regular visits; Gary’s brother-in-law, Dennis for not only his friendship, but the help he gave to Gary and Donna around the house, as he was always willing to fix whatever was broken. Finally, Gary’s family would like to thank the physicians and nurses in the second floor ICU at Aurora Bay Care Medical Center for the outstanding care that Gary and his family received, especially from Alexis W., Janelle K., Barb T. and Vanessa V.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held on Saturday June 13, 2026, from 1-4 p.m. at Simply Cremation (1530 W. Mason St, Green Bay, WI, 54303) with a prayer service and Military Honors at 4 p.m. A light lunch will be served. In lieu of flowers, please bring a story to share.