Jeffrey S. "Jeff" Gagnow

Jeffrey Gagnow passed away peacefully at home on March 13, 2026, after a 13-month battle with melanoma cancer. Born on March 29, 1971, in New London, Wisconsin, to David and Laureen (Brensike) Gagnow, Jeff grew up with a deep love for the outdoors that would define much of his life. He attended Emmanuel Lutheran School through eighth grade and graduated from New London High School in 1989. Following in his father’s footsteps, he worked as a Wisconsin Certified General Appraiser for 39 years.

Jeff married Kari Jacobsen on July 6, 2005, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Together they shared a devoted marriage, four miscarried children, and their beloved English Setter, Scout. A man of deep and active faith, Jeff was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ and a longtime member of Faith Lutheran Church in Fond du Lac. His relationship with the Lord guided him in all things and was naturally woven into his hunting and fishing adventures, public speaking, magazine articles, and social media presence.

An avid hunter and fisherman who had pursued his passions in 31 states across the United States and Canada, Jeff was actively involved in Selfless Service Outdoors, the Wolf River Bass Fishing Club, Weekday Warriors Bass Fishing, and Raised Hunting. He also served with distinction as a Boat Official for the Major League Fishing tournament series over the last four seasons. He is survived by his wife, Kari Jacobsen-Gagnow of Malone; his father, David (Nancy) Gagnow of Greenville; his mother, Laureen “Reeny” Gagnow of New London; his brother, Robin Gagnow of Berea, Ohio; his godson, Sawyer Swinford of New London; his in-laws, Dennis and Cheryl Jacobsen of Eagle Grove, Iowa; his brother- and sister-in-law, Bret and Bethany Jacobsen and nieces Lila and Kenna of Cedar Falls, Iowa; and his best friend and fishing partner, Tony Mollica, along with Tony’s wife Emily and son Asher of Neenah, as well as many other cherished hunting and fishing companions.