Deryle Gilligan

Deryle Gilligan, aged 76, passed away unexpectedly at home on August 25, 2024, in Fitchburg, WI. Born to Robert and Beulah Gilligan who preceded him in death. He was the first of four siblings. Deryle was fondly known as Gilligan by friends and loved ones, and most recently as ‘Baba’, a name gifted by his grandchildren.

When people think of Deryle, they remember his authentic smile. He was a beacon of positivity, who always chose to look at the glass as half full. He loved his family unconditionally and brought a playful spirit to every gathering. He entertained those close to him with countless stories, adventures, and facts. He was a lifelong learner. 

He had a career as an X-Ray technician for Siemens, then Bruker AXS and despite putting in long hours at times, Deryle attended every event his children participated in, played hours of soccer and basketball in the yard, and built a custom jungle gym for them to spend many hours playing on. He never missed an opportunity to get his children near or on an aircraft, boat or train, and loved to take his family tent camping.

He came out of retirement in 2018 to embrace the cherished role of 'Baba,' a professional grandpa, devoting himself to his grandchildren and supporting his children in their ventures of parenthood and homeownership. An avid fisherman during retirement, Deryle cherished his time on the water, and had been looking forward to sharing this passion more with his grandchildren as they grew.

Deryle leaves to honor and cherish memory, his wife Nancy; children, Cari (Cory) and Brett (Kelly); siblings, Deryla (Gene),Ronald (Diane), and Rhonda; his five grandchildren; his many nieces and nephews and a host of additional friends and family. 

A service to celebrate Deryle's life will be held at Goodland County Park on Saturday, September 28, view the invite to RSVP at: https://pp.events/aadVMmmX

Arrangements have been made under the care of Cress Funeral Home, Madison, WI. His legacy of love, play, and optimism will be cherished by all who knew him.