When Eugene Toepel became Juvenile Court Judge in 1957, the idea of a Boys Club in La Crosse began. That idea was nourished by Toepel and others for several years prior to the actual founding in 1966. Along with his friend, George Nixon, Eugene Toepel was indeed a significant force in the early stages of the development of the Boys Club in La Crosse.

Toepel was born in Bangor, WI and graduated from Bangor High School in 1933. After graduation, he attended Northwestern College and the University of Wisconsin obtaining a law degree in 1939. His career was interrupted in 1942 as he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he was commissioned a 2^nd Lieutenant. His assignments included overseas participation in the invasion of Europe, Omaha Beach, Red Fox, as well as the Battles of Normandy and the Bulge. Upon discharge from active duty, Toepel remained in the U.S. Army Reserve teaching at various USAR Schools prior to his retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel in 1969.

Judge Toepel was elected to the Wisconsin State Legislature in 1953, 1955, and 1957. He was actively involved in various cabinets including Chairmanship of the Judiciary Committee. In 1957, Toepel left the Legislature to accept an appointment as La Crosse County Judge.

As a juvenile court and Circuit Court Judge, Toepel was instrumental in various progressive legislation relating to juvenile law. He has been recognized as both a leader and an author of juvenile law and children’s code revisions in Wisconsin. He also organized school truancy committees to assist at-risk students in the school system.

Toepel’s interests have also included assistance in enacting progressive legislation regarding acute treatment in the Mental Health Field and the revitalization of the La Crosse County Alcoholism Council. He takes pride in his appointment to the White House Conference on Children and Youth in 1960.

Gene and his wife, Janet have been married for 47 years. They have 2 children, Timothy and Sandra. Much of his free time is spent playing golf and tennis.

Despite retiring as Circuit Judge on August 1^st, 1983, Toepel continues to serve as Reserve Judge in the State of Wisconsin.