Lionel Elbert Baxter

Lionel Elbert Baxter (March 9, 1923 - January 22, 2025) passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, six weeks short of his 102nd birthday, with his family by his side. There is no way to describe what he experienced during those 101+ years. His pride in his service, as well as his love of country and his sports teams was eclipsed only by his love of family. Lionel fought for human rights during WWII, culminating in the liberation of a concentration camp. Only in recent years, did he share some of the terror and horror he witnessed as a member of the greatest generation. Stateside, Lionel worked in the family cheese factory and at the Royal Bank of Avoca for many years, positively contributing to the community through work and volunteer opportunities. An active church participant, he loved walking with his children and grandchildren to church when they would visit. He taught his grandchildren the importance of community and to be impeccable with their words because “words matter”. While our family is sad, we are grateful for everything he instilled in us. We will miss his kindness, compassion, and wit. We are very appreciative of the care he received at Pine Valley Community Village and Richland Hospital.

Lionel is survived by his loving wife, Joanne (nee Gobar) of Avoca; beloved sons Craig of Buffalo Grove, Illinois; David of Oconomowoc; Wisconsin, daughter-in-law; Ronda (wife of David); grandchildren Leah, Ryan, Emily, Jessica, John (JD), Amanda, Rachel, Kelly; 23 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Betty Baxter (Avoca); sister-in-law Marian (Bob); sister-in-law Kate (Fred); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Leland and Thalia; his siblings Lee and Phyllis; his grandchildren Beau Baxter (David); Erik Baxter (Craig); and great-grandchild Graysen.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. with a service starting at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, the family will be hosting a luncheon ending with graveside military rites at the Richland Center Cemetery by the Frank O’Brien Avoca American Legion Post 335. The visitation and service will be held at Clary Memorial Funeral Home, 26777 Jelland Drive, Richland Center, WI. Pastor Chris Simonson will preside. In lieu of flowers, memorials made to the Avoca Fire/EMT Department and the Frank O’Brien Legion Post would be appreciated.   www.clarymemorialfuneralhome.com