Gary L. Gilbertson, age 83, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, at UW Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Gary was born on May 23, 1943, to Leonard and Gilma (Nelson) Gilbertson. He was raised with the values of hard work, dedication, and kindness that would define his life.

On October 9, 1965, Gary married Janet (Endres) Gilbertson. Together they shared 42 wonderful years of marriage, creating a lifetime of memories centered around family, friendship, and love until Janet’s passing. Gary was later blessed with eight years of marriage to his second wife, Eileen (Juno) Gilbertson, who also preceded him in death.

Gary proudly served his country in the Air Force Reserves. He dedicated 30 years of his professional career to Oscar Mayer/Kraft Foods, working in the computer department, where many of his co-workers became lifelong friends.

Gary was a devoted fan of the Badgers, Packers, and Brewers, and proudly held season tickets for Wisconsin Badger football for more than 20 years. An avid runner for many years, Gary completed 14 marathons.

Gary and Janet cherished their time boating on Lake Mendota, where they enjoyed countless days making memories with family and friends. He also loved traveling and treasured the many trips and adventures he shared with loved ones.

Gary was Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, where he served as Financial Secretary and Honor Guard and volunteered his time at numerous events. He also served as Treasurer of his homeowner’s association in Reedsburg, where he valued the friendships and camaraderie of his wonderful neighbors.

Above all, Gary’s greatest joy was his family. He was a proud father to Chris (Kevin) Reineke and Cathy (James) Goodweiler, and a deeply loving grandfather to Allie (Garrett) Miller, Jake Reineke, and Nicole Reineke. His grandchildren brought him immense pride and happiness, and he especially treasured his trips to Minnesota to cheer them on at basketball and baseball games, tennis matches, and golf tournaments.

Gary is also survived by his special friend, Cheryle Foley, his sister Rosalie Kovars, his brother Rodney Gilbertson, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at St. Peter Catholic Church, 5001 N. Sherman Avenue, Madison. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass on Wednesday at the church. A private burial will be held at St. John Catholic Cemetery, Waunakee.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to American Heart Association.

To view Gary’s obituary or to leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Gary Gilbertson

May 23, 1943 - June 16, 2026

Send Local Flowers & Gifts for Gary

Categories