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Gregory "Greg" Liautaud, age 63, passed away on December 26, 2025, at Essentia Health Hospital in Spooner, Wisconsin.
Greg was born on November 30, 1962, in Champaign, Illinois, to James “Jim” Liautaud and Grazina “Gina” (Gudaitis) Liautaud. He was raised with a strong sense of determination, resolve, empathy, and compassion that would guide him throughout his life.
He attended Culver Military Academy in Culver, Indiana, graduating in 1980. While at Culver, he was an active member of the polo team, Black Horse Troop (BHT), JROTC, Civil Air Patrol and rifle drill team– experiences that reflected both his leadership and love of challenge. Following high school, he proudly served in the United States Army as a Calvary Scout at Fort Knox, KY and Fort Carson, CO. This was an experience that further shaped his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to service. He later earned his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cal State Fullerton.
A lifelong learner and adventurer, he obtained pilot licenses for both fixed-wing aircrafts and helicopters, became a certified Dive Master, and enjoyed designing and installing high end stereos. Professionally, he devoted his career to Capsonic Companies, an expert supplier in customized insert molding and electromechanical assemblies, originally founded by his father. Under his leadership as CEO and owner, the business expanded significantly, reflecting his vision, work ethic, and commitment to innovation.
He married his college sweetheart, Jenny Roehricht, on May 24, 1992. Their relationship, rooted in friendship and shared aspirations, grew into a lifelong partnership built on love, trust, and commitment. Together they created a home in Trout Valley, IL, centered on family, adventure, and togetherness, and they took great pride in raising their four children.
Greg joined the Windy City Chapter of YPO (Young Presidents Organization) in his late 30s. Through Forum and education events, he grew in the areas of family, work, and self and how to maintain a balance of those areas. It also provided opportunities for date nights and couples’ travel trips including England, Italy, and France.
He was deeply committed to serving others as a firefighter and paramedic with the Cary Fire Department and later as a volunteer on the Wascott Fire Department. His dedication to community safety was a source of pride for both him and his family. So much so that, in the event of a family emergency, Greg was always the first person they called.
He embraced life outdoors and cherished his many hobbies, including hunting, saltwater fishing, downhill skiing, and boating. Great pride and joy was found in taking each of his children on individual trips to Africa. He was a member of Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, the Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation, Safari Club International, and Four Seasons Rec Club. At home, he found joy in sitting around the fire, watching old movies, reading, and cooking for loved ones—especially his favorite dishes of red beans and rice, white chicken, and lasagna. He had a special fondness for dogs and babies, both of which never failed to bring a smile to his face. If you were ever looking for Greg, you could find him holding a baby, playing with a dog, or sitting on the back patio of Camp Jackpine. Conversations on the back patio earned him the title of “Keeper of All Knowledge.”
He is survived by his wife Jenny Liautaud of Wascott, Wisconsin and children: Christine (Drew) Beard of Palatine, Illinois; Kate (Joey) Thessin of Norfolk, Virginia; George Liautaud of Nashville, Tennessee; and Becky (Josh) Daleiden of Wascott, Wisconsin. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Bethany Seidel, Jackson Daleiden, and Grant Beard.
He is further survived by his mother, Gina Liautaud of Barrington, Illinois; siblings Jimmy John (Leslie) Liautaud of Franklin, Tennessee; Robby (Kim) Liautaud of Inverness, Illinois; and Lara (Rob) Berry of Barrington, Illinois; in-laws Hans and Dorothy Roehricht of Lake Forest, California; Wendy (Fremont) Hitchcock of Corte Madera, California; and Quenton (Kim) Roehricht of RSM, California; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He is preceded in death by his father, James “Big Jim” Liautaud and his many family dogs: Kizzie, Sandy, Numa, Kozmo, and Jack.
A private gathering to celebrate his life is planned at this time. Celebrations with extended family and friends will be held in the summer.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Wascott Volunteer Fire Department and/or Four Seasons Rec Club in appreciation of his dedication to service and community.
Wascott Volunteer Fire Department: PO Box 111, Wascott, WI 54890
Four Season Rec Club: PO Box 21, Wascott, WI 54890
His legacy of leadership, adventure, service, and devotion to family will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.