Gerald Solberg

Called home to the loving arms of the Lord on Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2016. Longtime resident of Weyauwega, and lately of Wauwatosa. Beloved father of William, Kathryn (Daniel) Czaplewski, Janet, and Marilyn. Loving grandpa of Mickey (Sarah) O’Leary, William, Randy (Yunsoon Lee), and Catrina Solberg, and Matthew and Emily Czaplewski.

Dearest great-grandpa of Isabelle and Caitlyn Solberg, and Cecilia O’Leary. Dear brother of Elizabeth (the late Richard) Kilishek, Margaret Bigford, Daniel (Ada Shilts), Richard (Marge), Ronald (Ruth), John, Raymond (Marlene), Carol Ann (Robert) Romportl, Vincent (Sandy Shirley), Robert (Julie Stickney), and Debbie Solberg, and many relatives and friends.

Preceded in death by his cherished wife, Gloria (nee Felski), infant son Joseph, brother Donald (the late Josephine), brother-in-law Roy Felski, sisters-in-law Connie Solberg and Beverly Kubiaczyk, and several dear nephews and nieces.

Gerald was born January 14, 1928 in Kaukauna, WI to Isaac and Margaret (nee Derks) Solberg. He served in the Navy during WWII in the Pacific Theater, on the USS Lyman K. Swenson, and the Merchant Marine. He played on the Flying Dutchmen semi-pro football team.

Gerald married the love of his life, Gloria Felski of West Allis, on Sept. 4,1954. They built a life together in West Allis, raising a family of four children, and became founding members of West Allis Special Olympics in 1969. They were active and devoted members until moving to Weyauwega in 1994. Gerald was a retiree of the W.A. Water Dept.

Gerald walked his faith through service and advocacy, as a member of the American Legion, VFW, Amvets, W.A. Crime Stoppers and Neighborhood Watch, Knights of Columbus, political campaigns, and serving as a union steward. He was Cub Master of pack 586 in West Allis. Family, fishing, and country music brought him joy. His smile will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. We love you, Dad!

Heartfelt thanks to all the staff of St. Camillus Memory, Skilled, and Hospice care for your compassionate care as you journeyed with us.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, (608 E Main St.), Weyauwega, on Friday, Oct. 7 at 11:00 AM, with Fr. Xavier Santiago officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Weyauwega. A visitation for Gerald will be held at the church on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service.