Gloria Stanek

It is with heavy hearts yet fond memories that we announce the passing of Gloria Stanek, who left this world peacefully on July 26, 2026, at Tomah Health. Born on May 16, 1949, in Sparta, WI, Gloria was a luminary throughout her life, sharing her warmth and kindness with all who had the privilege of knowing her. Gloria was the cherished daughter of Donald and Frances Smith, who, along with her daughter Stephanie Clark, brother James Smith, sister Linda Hines, and nephews Aaron, Kurt, and James Kimpton, predeceased her. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Denise Jolin and son-in-law Gary, as well as her treasured granddaughters Karlee Jolin, Alexa Jolin, Macey Baker (Josh), and Danaca Shabatka. Gloria’s legacy continues through her eight great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy and pride. Her life was blessed with love and companionship. Gloria married Dennis Welch in December of 1967, and together they welcomed two beautiful daughters into the world. After remarrying in 1979 to Jim Stanek, Gloria continued to embrace life with an open heart. She shared a special friendship with her bonus daughter Kim Johnson and held a cherished bond with her special nephew, Jayson Hines, along with other nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends who became family. Gloria's academic pursuits began at Tomah High School, where she graduated in 1967, followed by her further education at Nicolet College, earning her degree in 1981. Her career in healthcare administration was marked by dedication and compassion, beginning at Tomah Memorial Hospital. When she moved to Rhinelander in 1979, she continued her work at St. Mary's Hospital. In 1986, her journey took her to Phoenix, Arizona, where she served at Good Samaritan Hospital. A return to Tomah in 2008 allowed her to be closer to family, and she concluded her career with heartfelt service at Liberty Village until her retirement in 2012. An avid sports enthusiast, Gloria spent 25 years in Phoenix, passionately supporting the Arizona Diamondbacks as a season-ticket holder and enjoying the spring training of the Milwaukee Brewers. Her love for the Packers was a staple of her character, as were the joyous family gatherings at baseball and football games. Beyond sports, Gloria found happiness in family events, local meat raffles, and shared adventures with her sister Carolyn. Gloria was a beacon of love and support, embodying the roles of friend, mother, and Gigi with grace and joy. Her home was always open, her heart always full, and her spirit, endlessly nurturing. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her most cherished gifts, lighting up her world with each visit and call. A celebration of Gloria's life will take place on August 8, 2026, at Sonneburgs Funeral Home in Tomah, WI. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor her memory and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Gloria's honor, reflecting the generosity and kindness she showed throughout her life. Gloria Stanek will forever be remembered for her unwavering kindness, her devotion to family, and her boundless generosity. Her legacy lives on in the hearts she touched and the lives she enriched, reminding us all of the power of love and community.