Gordon Stoddard

Gordon “Doc” Stoddard, age 89 of Stoughton passed away on Oct 14, 2023.

He was born on Dec. 2, 1933, in South Dakota, and raised in Cedar Rapids, IA. He married Vernie Mae Johnson on Christmas Eve, Dec.24, 1955.  Together they raised their 3 daughters in Monona.

“Doc” was personally recruited by Elroy Hirsch to take the position of Head Athletic Trainer for the University of Wisconsin Badgers, which he held from 1969 to 1986. He was also a Senior lecturer, and Athletic Training Coordinator.  Over his long and accomplished career, he was the recipient of multiple and varied prestigious honors and awards, including several distinguished service awards.

Gordon was inducted as Charter Member of the Wisconsin Athletic Trainers Hall of Fame. He was also inducted into Rocky Mountain College Hall of Fame, and the National Athletic Training Association Hall of Fame.  His contributions include countless lectures, conferences and published works, all doing a job that he truly loved.

“Doc” was an avid fisherman and traveler who loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is remembered and celebrated by his family and his many students and colleagues who were fortunate to have been a part of his storied life.

He is survived by Vernie, his loving wife of 68 years, daughters Sherri (Byron) Tetzlaff, Debbi (Dennis Luchterhand) Stoddard, Brenda Stoddard, five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

206 W. Prospect, P.O. Box 231, Stoughton

(608) 873-9244