Gale Lawrence Shinkan

Gale Lawrence Shinkan, born on April 6, 1953, in East Chicago, Indiana, 59 years of age, unexpectedly passed away on February 6, 2013. Gale grew up in the Northwoods, primarily Minocqua and Woodruff area. He attended Woodruff Grade School. During his teen years his family moved to California where he completed high school. Gale served in the Armed Forces, married and had two sons, Timothy and John. Gale returned to his native homeland in 1988. He married Sandra Jennings in July of 1990. In 1991, Gale and Sandra moved to Waukesha, Wisconsin, where Gale was employed by Guhring, Inc. for 17 years. During that same time, Gale began buying and flipping homes (remodeling) which he enjoyed very much. In 2006, they returned to the Northwoods where they planned to retire. In 2008, Gale began over the road semi-truck driving and continued to drive until his death. Gale was known in the Northwoods for being the “nicest guy around.” His sense of humor was priceless and always made people laugh. His nature was kind and laid back. He had a heart of gold and would help anyone who needed it, friend or stranger. He loved fishing, bowling, and made a hobby out of bird watching. He built numerous bird feeders, had a library of bird books, and spent hours watching and documenting bird habits. Over the years, he could identify any bird at any location. Birds would eat from his hand and swim in the sprinklers when Gale was watering the lawn. Gale loved the outdoors and maintaining his properties. You could always find him planting, weeding the garden or on his rider lawn mower with one of his grandkids in his lap. Not only was he a wonderful grandpa, he was also the perfect Santa every year at Christmas time for his grandchildren. Gale is survived by one Son, John Shinkan, from a previous marriage; one Brother, Darryl and one Sister, Karen (Harry) Hedstrom, family in Eau Claire and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his former wife, Sandra Jennings wife of 21 years and by 3 Step Children: Michael Jennings, Barbara (Dan) Ehler and Douglas (Marcene) Jennings. He was “Grandpa” to five step Grandchildren: Jordan, Julia, Jacob, Dylan and Bryton; all of whom loved him so very much and will have loving and fun memories to carry with them. He was preceded in death by one Son, Timothy; his parents, Hank and Shirley Shinkan and by three Brothers: Michael, Rick and Ronald Shinkan. It is a harrowing saddened time for us; Gale will be so missed by those that love him. We hope and pray that Gale has found peace and serenity. Memorial Service will be held on Monday, February 18th at 12:00 Noon at Nimsgern Funeral Home Chapel, 1025 Margaret Street, Woodruff, Wisconsin with a gathering from 11:00 AM till time of service. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 120 Wall Street, 29th Floor, New York, NY 10005 would be appreciated. Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.