Obituary of Archie Vernon Gauwitz

Archie Vernon Gauwitz “The Fox” of Climax Springs, MO, formerly of Lacon, IL, passed away on October 13, 2016 at his home. He was born on March 18, 1934 to Arthur Conrad and Virginia Vest Gauwitz in Peoria, IL. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant son and brother Hank. Archie graduated from Mid-County High School in 1952, joining the Air Force in 1953. He served as a Staff/Sgt over two years in Japan as a radar operator and two years stateside in New York, Mississippi, and Arizona, honorably discharged in 1957. He married Marilyn Farner in 1956 and later married Debbie Osborne in 2011. He was a member of the American Legion Post 624 Sunrise Beach, MO and former member of VFW Post in Chillicothe, IL. Archie was a life member and charter Commander of Billie L Roth Amvets Post 269 in Lacon, IL. He served as State Editor for the Amvets in IL for two years. Archie served as Postmaster of Lacon, IL for 32 years, retiring in 1994. During his career, he was involved with the National League of Postmasters, Illinois Branch, serving as their Secretary, Vice President, Executive Vice President and President. He was also involved with many National committees, running for National Vice President in 1971. Surviving are daughters Connie Gauwitz of IL, Pamela (Larry) Smith of NV, Tamerra (John) Tomasson of AZ, Jennifer (Tim) Whited of NV; grandchildren Vanessa (Justin) Hale, Caroline and Keaton Smith, Brianne and Matthew Tomasson and Jada Whited and great-grandchildren Alex and Avery Hale, brothers Chuck (Linda) Gauwitz, Roger (Marlene) Gauwitz, sisters Judy (Roger) Hoskins, and Mary Lynn Gauwitz. Moving to Lake of the Ozarks in 1996, Archie enjoyed hunting and was an avid fisherman and local crappie guide. He was a founding member of “FOG Day” at Nex Door in Camdenton, MO. Archie enjoyed family time on the boat, playing cards, shooting dice and his special labs, Sunny and Tucker. Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and there will be no services. His remains will be interred in Arlington Cemetery.