Gloria M. Gestl

Gloria Marie Gestl, a beacon of love and wisdom, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024, at the age of 81, in her home in New Berlin, Wisconsin. Born on May 16, 1942, to Anthony and Agnes Salentine, Gloria's life was one rich with the joy of family, the pride of a career well-served, and the simple pleasures of her many interests.

Those who knew Gloria best will remember her as a loving and intelligent woman, whose analytical nature was complemented by a warm and nurturing spirit. She was the loving mother of Janet (Tom) Marczewski, the late Karen Gestl, Sandy (late Sabba) Jaipuri, and Jeannie (Randy) Call. Each of her children was a testament to her unwavering love and support, carrying forward her legacy of kindness and resilience.

Gloria's role as a grandmother and great-grandmother was one she cherished deeply. She adored her grandchildren: Mandy Flores, Taylor (Alex) Knight, the late Jacob Girard, Jonathan Girard, the late Nathan Jaipuri, Ali, Isabelle, and Solomon Jaipuri. Her great-grandchildren brought her immense joy and pride: Malik and Jaylin Flores, Luke and Beau Knight. Each of them will hold dear the memories of their grandmother's love and the wisdom she imparted.

Preceded in death by her beloved parents, Anthony and Agnes Salentine, and her siblings Roy (Margaret) Salentine, Harvey (late Marjorie) Salentine, Walter (Marilyn) Salentine, Donna (late John) Wegner, and John (Marieann) Salentine. Gloria's memory will live on through her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, not only to her immediate family but also to her cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of other relatives and friends who were touched by her gracious spirit.

Gloria graduated from New Berlin High School, where she formed lifelong friendships and acquired knowledge that would serve her well throughout her life. Her intelligence and analytical mind led her to a fulfilling career as an office manager for Dan Hau, CPA, where she dedicated over 20 years of service, managing with both precision and care.

Gloria had many interests which were a reflection of her engaging and sociable nature. Her love of traveling took her to many destinations with her late loving partner, Tom Schlindwein. Her love for card games only matched by her skill and competitive spirit. She was a formidable sheepshead player. Her passion for games extended to the joy she found in playing tonk, cribbage, canasta, Mille Bornes coup fourre, and assembling puzzles, a metaphor for her ability to bring together the pieces of her family's stories into a beautiful picture of shared history and love.

Gloria also enjoyed an active lifestyle that included participating in intermural volleyball. She was an avid bowler; even appearing on the Saturday morning “Bowling with the Champs” show. Gloria was a familiar face at the local bowling alley, where her strikes and spares were as reliable as her infectious laugh. As a Wisconsin sports fan, she cheered on the Packers, Brewers, and Bucks.

The impact of Gloria's life is immeasurable, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her. She imparted lessons of love, strength, and intelligence to everyone she encountered, and these gifts will continue to flourish in the lives of those she touched.

As we say goodbye to Gloria Marie Gestl, we celebrate a life well-lived, a heart full of love, and a mind ever curious and bright. Her journey on this earth was one of purpose and joy, and although she has left our sight, her spirit remains an indelible part of the fabric of our lives. Rest in peace, dear Gloria, until we meet again.

Visitation will be held at Max A. Sass & Sons-Westwood Chapel (W173S7629 Westwood Drive, Muskego 53150) on Saturday April 27th, beginning at 9 am until time of service at 11 am. Burial will follow at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery (3800 East College Avenue, Cudahy 53110). Please meet at the main entrance by 1pm. At approximately 2 pm, you are welcome to join the family for lunch and the opportunity to share fond memories of Gloria at Meyer’s Restaurant (4260 S 76th Street, Greenfield 53220). Donations to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Gloria's name are appreciated.