Gordon William Kaskin March 20,1929 -January 2nd, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we share the death of our beloved Father, Gordon William Kaskin. He was born on March 20th, 1929, in Burlington, WI, the son of the late William and Astrid (Peterson) Kaskin. He was educated in a one room schoolhouse, attended Wilmot High School and graduated from Bradford High School in Kenosha. Dad met the love of his life, Betty Lou Woods, at the Twin Lakes Roller Rink on St. Patrick's Day.

Shortly after their engagement he was involved in a tragic accident, resulting in him being pinned under the car. He suffered many severe, life-threatening injuries and was given last rites. Dad always said it was because of a miracle that he survived but we believe it was his pure grit, determination, inner strength and the love of our mother that kept him alive. He cheated death a second time when he was going home, after being discharged from the hospital, when the car he was riding in was hit head on by a delivery truck. He would tell us that he was sent back to the same hospital, and they still had his pajamas on his bed.

While working hard to physically recover, in anticipation of marrying Mom, the Army called. Our parents married in a candlelit ceremony on Friday, February 6th, 1953, and he shipped out for Korea on Monday the 9th. He served on the front lines for 18 months with a brief stint as a patient in a Japanese hospital. He loved his country and was proud of his service. He was a member of the American Legion for over 70 years.

Upon returning home he continued his sponsorship with Harley Davidson, winning many dirt track races across the country. Dad, having grown up on a farm, never backed away from hard work or a challenge. He started his very successful business - Gordon Kaskin Painting & Decorating in the 60's and quickly developed a reputation for his honesty, dependability and experience. He was a true Artist, experimenting with Faux finishes before it even had a name.

Dad had many interests and loved competition. He was an avid golfer and started leagues in both Richmond and Twin Lakes. Mom & Dad bowled for many years in couple's leagues in Lake Geneva and Burlington. Many summers and weekends were spent at the Cabin they built on Barber Lake near Winter, WI, where he patiently taught us to fish, swim and row a boat. In his later years he developed a passion for gardening, winning awards for his many flower beds. Mom was always by his side & they were an incredible team. Dad was very lucky in love but also at the Casino, taking many trips on Ruthie's bus and for the last few years on Linda's 4 Runner.

But most important to him was his family. He was devoted to his wife of over 70 years and to his children: Cindy (Chuck Puntillo), Bill Kaskin (Lynn), Scott Kaskin (Teri), Cheri Ghislain (Mike), and Linda Karow (Mark). Calling him Papa were 11 Grandchildren: Jodi, Jonathan, Laura Lynn, Alisa, Courtney, Brandon, Haley, Gordie, Logan, Skyler and Dalton and 10 Great Grandchildren: Arianna, Brecken, Nolan, Naomi, Jalynn, Conner, Allison, Braxton, Calvin, and Daniel.

He will always be remembered for his contagious laugh and the mischievous twinkle in his eyes. Services will be held Sunday, January 14th at 4:00 at Messiah Lutheran Church in Twin Lakes, WI. Visitation at 3.