Alex Frank Macha

Alex Macha, age 91, of Hatfield, WI, formerly of Wisconsin Rapids, WI died Friday, December 29, 2017 at his home.   Alex Frank Macha was born on July 17, 1926 in Nekoosa, WI the son of Amos and Clara (Kumm) Macha. He was raised on a farm near Pittsville, WI and at the age of 14 he, and his parents, moved to Iowa where they farmed until 1943. They then moved to Wisconsin Rapids, where Alex went to work for the Dana Machine Co. as an apprentice machinist. He entered the United States Army in 1944 and served in the European Theatre. After his honorable discharge at the rank of Master Sargent in 1946, he returned to Wisconsin Rapids and again worked at Dana’s until 1949 when he went into the oil business. He was united in marriage to Dorothy Gaulke in October of 1946. He sold the oil business in 1956 and then worked for a paper mill for several years. After leaving the paper mill, he started a lawn and garden sales and service business with his wife that they operated for 31 years, retiring in 2000. They then moved to Hatfield, where they spent many good years together, often taking time to travel extensively.   He was a founding member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Rapids, WI and also served as their treasurer for over 25 years. While in Hatfield he held offices at the Sportsman Club and Snowmobile Club.   He is survived by three children, Dr. Allen (Betty) Macha of La Crosse, WI, Kathleen (Jeff) Kett of Tomah, WI and Susan (Bruce) Hoffman of Stevens Point, WI, six grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren a sister, Elaine, one brother, Earl and a special friend, Adeline Arndt of Neillsville.   He was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy, parents, an infant sister and a son, Dr. Robert Macha   Funeral Services for Alex will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 2, 2017 at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Neillsville. Pastor Timothy Biebert will officiate. Military Honors will be performed in Neillsville by the Neillsville Veteran’s Council. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday at the Gesche Funeral Home and from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday at the church. Interment will be in the Forest Hill Cemetery in Wisconsin Rapids, WI.   In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Hatfield Volunteer Fire Department, N9510 Hwy K, Hatfield, WI 54754.   Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.   The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Alex’s family with Funeral arrangements.