GLORIA STANEK

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gloria Stanek, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who departed this life on July 26, 2026, at Tomah Health. Born on May 16, 1949, in Sparta, WI, Gloria was the beloved daughter of the late Donald and Frances Smith. She was an extraordinary woman whose warmth and spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Gloria's journey through life was marked by her dedication to family and community. A proud graduate of Tomah High School's Class of 1967, Gloria furthered her education at Nicolet College, earning a degree in Healthcare Administration in 1981. Her career was a testament to her commitment to caring for others, beginning as a unit clerk at Tomah Memorial Hospital. In 1979, she moved to Rhinelander and continued her healthcare career at St. Mary's Hospital. Her dedication took her to Phoenix in 1986, where she served in medical administration at Good Samaritan Hospital. Eventually, she returned to Tomah, where she worked at Liberty Village until her retirement in 2012. A sports enthusiast, Gloria spent 25 years in Phoenix as a devoted season-ticket holder to the Arizona Diamondbacks and cherished attending Brewers' spring training. A loyal Packers fan, she loved the camaraderie of cheering on her favorite teams. Beyond the stadium lights, Gloria found joy in family gatherings, local meat raffles, and adventures with her sister and best friend, Carolyn Kimpton. Gloria was married to Dennis Welch in December 1967, with whom she welcomed two daughters. She found love again with Jim Stanek, whom she married in 1979. Her family was her greatest pride, and she was a beloved "Gigi" to her four granddaughters—Karlee Jolin, Alexa Jolin, Macey Baker (Josh), and Danaca Shabatka—and her eight great-grandchildren: Paxton, Gunner, Arie, Luca, Easton, Oliver, Oakley, and Everleigh. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her family; she was a mother figure to anyone in need and a friend to all. Preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Stephanie Clark, her brother James Smith, her sister Linda Hines, and nephews Aaron, Kurt, and James Kimpton, Gloria now joins them in eternal peace. She leaves behind her loving daughter Denise (Gary) Jolin, son-in-law Tom Clark, her beloved sisters Carolyn and Barb Kimpton, brother-in-law Gary Kimpton, sister-in-law Jane Rezin, and special nephew Jayson Hines. Her memory will also be cherished by her "bonus daughter" Kim Johnson, along with many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. A service to celebrate Gloria's life will be held on August 8, 2026, at Sonnenburgs Family Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Gloria's honor. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Tomah Health and Sonnenburgs Family Funeral Home for their compassionate care. Gloria's legacy is one of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and friends. Her light will forever shine in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.