Jack Trautman Sr., 90, of Abbotsford, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on August 27, 1935, in Raymond, Wisconsin, Jack Sr. lived a life marked by integrity, kindness, and devotion to family and community.
Raised in a family of skilled nurserymen, Jack Sr. inherited a green thumb and a talent for propagation techniques that served him throughout his life. After attending the Racine County School of Agriculture and Domestic Economy, he deepened his love for horticulture and farming—a passion that shaped his days. Whether tending his gardens or working on his beloved hobby farm, Jack found joy in coaxing life from the soil. Plants weren’t the only things he nurtured; his family and friends flourished under his care and humor.
An avid outdoorsman, Jack was happiest under an open sky, whether casting a line, hunting in the woods or swapping stories at camp. He embraced the camaraderie and culture of camp life, where his quick wit and clever quips were as essential as the coffee pot.
Despite physical challenges, Jack never let his handicap define him. He lived with determination and grace, proving that limitations are simply opportunities in disguise. His involvement in the Lions Club reflected his commitment to service and community, always ready to lend a hand or share a smile.
When he wasn’t outdoors, Jack could often be found enjoying a good western or cheering for the Packers with the same steadfastness he showed in his own life. His humor was legendary, warm, sharp, and perfectly timed. If you spent five minutes with him, you were guaranteed a laugh and maybe a new nickname for something you thought was perfectly fine as it was.
Jack Sr. leaves behind his children: Jack Jr. (Gretchen) Trautman, Patrick Trautman, Joy (Mike) Weber, and Chad (Moria) Trautman; grandchildren: Kaylyn Trautman, Kyle Johnson, Hunter Trautman, Jack Trautman III, Grace Trautman, Haidyn Trautman, Brayden Weber, Blake Weber, and Brody Weber; great-grandchild Willow Redmann; and sister Barbara Jean Dessart, who will forever cherish his stories, his strength, and his sparkling eyes that always held a twinkle of mischief.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathy Trautman, and his parents, Rhoda and Carl.
The family asks that you join them for the celebration of Jack’s life and a Packer game on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rembs Celebration Center 250 S. Oak Avenue Marshfield, WI.
In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that you plant something green in his honor, because if there’s one thing Jack taught us, it’s that life is better when it grows. And to his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Grandpa Schnickelfritz” he’d probably grin and say, “Meet you in Buxtehude.”
Condolences may be sent online at www.rembsfh.com
Author: News Desk
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