Harold "Gene" G. Drecktrah

Harold G. “Gene” Drecktrah, age 87, passed away at his home on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. He was born to the late Harold W. and Ella (Christopherson) Drecktrah on November 1, 1938 in West Salem, WI. Gene married his high school sweetheart Mary Schomberg on June 30, 1962. Gene graduated high school in 1956, received his BS from UW-LaCrosse in 1961, then completed his PHD from Iowa State in 1965.

Gene joined UW-Oshkosh in 1966 where he held multiple positions until his retirement in 2002. He was a professor, associate dean, co-chair of the biology/microbiology department, active researcher and curated the UW-O insect collection. Gene was an avid UW-O Titans sports fan and supported all the men’s and women’s teams. He was a proud member of the Titan Booster Club, bartender for the University Club and an active member of the athletic committee for many years. One of his proudest accomplishments was being part of the UW Foundation board of directors. It was there he was able to contribute to the overall growth and direction of UW-O, including the establishment of multiple scholarships in education and biology.

Gene led an active and adventurous life filled with travel both domestic and international. Many summers were spent crisscrossing the states on extended camping road trips with his family. His love of craft beer may have only been topped by his passion for insects, and both interests were satisfied throughout his travels in Wisconsin and beyond. Being an avid sports fan, he closely followed all his hometown teams; the Packers, Bucks and Brewers. Later in life he rediscovered his love for cars and took much pleasure in driving and showing his classic cars.

Gene is survived by his sister Anne, his two sons, David (Jessica) and Daniel (Liz) Drecktrah and two grandchildren Lucy and Brock. In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his loving wife Mary in 2002.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Homes- westside (100 Lake Pointe Dr., Oshkosh) on Sunday, January 25, 2026 from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the UW - Oshkosh Scholarship Program in memory of Gene.