Gladys Gilbertson

Gladys Gilbertson, age 89 of Viroqua, died Sunday, June 21, 2009 . Gladys Sophia Gilbertson, age 89, of Viroqua and formerly of rural Westby, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2009 at the Bethel Home with her family at her side. She was born March 10, 1920 to Severt and Anna (Olson) Virak in Viroqua Township. She was confirmed at Westby Coon Prairie Lutheran Church by Rev. Holum. She graduated from Smith School, Westby High School in 1937, and Vernon County Normal School in 1939. She taught in rural schools for four years at Knapp and Wood Schools. She took a civil service exam in 1944 and was offered a position in a Naval office in Chicago. She was united in marriage to Maynard Gilbertson on October 22, 1948 at Westby Coon Prairie Lutheran Church. They lived in Chicago for over 30 years. Gladys held various clerical positions, retiring as a secretary from Encyclopedia Britannica Education Corp. in 1981. After their retirement she and Maynard returned to rural Westby. Gladys enjoyed gardening, reading, crossword puzzles, baking, scrap booking and keeping up with local and national news. Her family appreciated her gingersnaps and Norwegian cookies. Her knowledge of family and local history was encyclopedic, and will be greatly missed. Gladys always put her family first. Her thoughtfulness and generosity will never be forgotten. Gladys is survived by her daughter, Lois (Michael) Doll of Rosemount, Minnesota; three granddaughters: Kristin Doll (David Zabinski), Cassandra (James) Hart and Megan Doll; one sister, Alice Nuetzel of Viroqua; nephews; nieces; and cousins.She was preceded in death by her husband, Maynard on October 3, 1997; her parents; one sister, Alda Virak; and one brother, Alvin Virak.Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Country Coon Prairie Lutheran Church, rural Westby. Pastor Dennis Hallemeier will officiate with burial in the Coon Prairie Cemetery. Friends may call at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.The Vosseteig Funeral Home of Westby is serving the family.