We are saddened to announce the passing of Sherwood L. Slager, aka "Shark". He passed peacefully at home with his wife by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. They celebrate 38 years of love and commitment together.

He is survived by his loving wife, Geraldine (Geri), adopted children; daughter, Tricia (James) Wirth of Fitchburg and son Norris Crowe of Baraboo, 6 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

He is further survived by his sisters: Harriet (Ron) Hoffman of Randolph, Cyndee Slager of Fox Lake, and brothers: Larry (Dianne) Slager of Randolph, Calvin Slager of Danbury, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Gertie Slager, brother Donavan (Helen) Slager and sister Sandee (Gary) Bossenbroeck.

He was a proud American patriot. He joined the Army National Guard, being Honorable Discharged on November 28, 1982. Military Honors will be performed at the funeral home following the memorial service.

He spent most of his working years with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections as a Correctional Officer at Waupun, Oakhill and Columbia Correctional Institutions. He continued to the Department of Corrections Central Office in Madison until his retirement. His gift while working for the state was to have met his wife, Geri.

Following his retirement, he enjoyed being in his shop, with the garage door wide open, waving to everyone that drove by. People would stop in and introduce themselves and chat with him. He liked riding his John Deere lawn tractor (his prize toy). He kept it serviced and in immaculate condition.

The family wishes to acknowledge and express their gratitude to the "amazing" Agrace Hospice team members for their compassionate care and support. Along with the caring physicians: Dr. Antonio Escobedo, Dr. James Huen and Palliative Care -Melissa O'Rourke of SSM Health Dean Medical Group.

Our appreciation goes out to St. Mary's Parish: Pastoral Ministries – Nancy Davis, Fr. Randy Timmerman, and a personal phone call from Fr. Gary Krahenbuhl. The time they spent with us in prayer and guiding us along as well as through our emotional journey. We like to thank our families, friends and neighbors for their kindness, prayers, cards and visits.

A memorial service will be held at Kratz Funeral Home 302 E. Conant Street, Portage on Monday June 2, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. In Lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to the following places. Agrace.org/donate, Call (800)555-4289 or send a check to the Agrace Foundation, 5395E Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711 Columbia County Veteran's Office at 112 East Edgewater Street Portage, WI 53901 (608)742-9618