Gearl, Gregory J.Gregory John "WIZ" Gearl, 63, Appleton, passed away Monday, February 13, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family after a hard fought battle with cancer. He was born on April 8, 1953 in Chicago, IL to the late Gustav and Gladys (Christensen) Gearl. Greg was baptized on May 10, 1953 at St. James Ev. Lutheran Church, Chicago, IL and confirmed on May 7, 1967 at Christ Lutheran Church in Gillett, WI.He grew up in Suring WI and attended Suring High School. Greg received his Bachelor degree in Accounting from UW Green Bay. While attending UWGB, he supported himself by bartending where co-workers gave him the nickname "WIZ". When times were slow, Greg could be found studying behind the bar. While bartending, he met his wife, Judy, at The Hop. Upon graduation, Greg had several accounting jobs in the valley. It was not until he was hired by The ARC - Fond du Lac on August 1, 2005, as Director of Finance, that Greg found and develop a deep appreciation for his job and new co-workers, "His 2nd family". He was a member of and an avid volunteer at St. Matthew Lutheran Church where he served as greeter, usher, communion server, church council treasurer and in the AV booth. Greg joyfully like to discuss and share his Bible studies and faith with all. He enjoyed woodworking, playing chess, star gazing, canoeing, having family game night and an occasional trip to Oneida to play Blackjack. Greg is survived by his loving wife of 24 years: Judy (Boldt) Gearl; son Stephen (Roxy) Harris and grandson, Roman Eli. His is also survived by Lorrie Rae Harris (Stephen's mother); sisters-in-Iaw: Beverly (Michael) Quella and Terry Boldt; and a wonderful niece: Amanda (Quella) Senkbeil, husband Jim and their children: Bailey Michael "B-man", Shyanne Marie "Sweetie" and Mason James "Mason Jar" who brought nothing but happiness and adventure into his life. Greg is further survived by sister Sandy (Joe) Deckers and their children Stacy (Kevin) Deckers and daughter Shelby Jo and Mary (Garrette) Kersten and their daughter Sophia. Greg was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and a great niece: Christine, as well as with numerous Aunts and Uncles.A memorial service for Greg will be held at 6:30PM, Friday, February 17, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 129 S Mason St, Appleton, with Rev. Thomas Mielke officiating. Friends may visit at the church from 4PM until the time of service. Inurnment will be at Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established.The family would like to thank Beverly and Terry, Dr. Gregory Hartig and ThedaCare Hospice for the loving care they gave to Greg.