Gayle E. Walkowiak

Gayle E. Walkowiak passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at UW Hospital.  She was born on September 19, 1961 in Black River Falls, the daughter of James and Patricia (Meek) Dimmick.  She married Robert Walkowiak on July 14, 1984 in Black River Falls, Wisconsin.

Gayle graduated from Black River Falls Senior High School in 1979, obtained a BS in Nursing for UW – Eau Claire in 1983, and a Masters in Adult Nursing from Marquette in 1987.

Gayle practiced nursing in Ladysmith, Fond du Lac, Madison (UW Hospital), and at the WEA Insurance Trust.  She spent her most recent years spoiling her husband Bob and cat Denny

Gayle was a central figure in our family who filled any void when needed – from shopping for a wedding dress with her niece to caring for her sister after multiple surgeries.  We could always count on Gayle.  She loved spending time with her family weather it was perfecting the crown roast on New Year’s Eve or hunting for seashells on Sanibel Island.  Gayle loved her cats almost as much as she loved Bob. Her first stop is at the rainbow bridge to re-unite with Rikki Tikki Tavi, Willow, Cali, and Bernie.

Gayle’s generous heart extended well beyond her family.  She bought unique fun gifts for everyone and donated her time and treasure to many causes.  She always valued helping people over money.

Gayle became involved with Citizen Advocacy and Community Living Connections, where she was linked up with her disabled friend Cindie Maranger.  Gayle made sure Cindie felt valued and loved, taking her on outings, providing gifts, treats, and a working cell phone until her passing in January.

Gayle was most at peace at their Trempealeau home on the banks of the Mississippi. Even though she was unable to fulfill her dream of making it their full-time home, we are grateful for the month of July, she and Bob had just spent there – a beautiful place full of beautiful memories.

Gayle is survived by her husband Robert of 39+ years; sisters Ann Dimmick, Mary (Todd) Wyss, and Linda Ellis; nieces Sarah (Danny) Wollner, and Alyssa (Eric) Huff; nephews James Morgan, Demitre Ellis, and Jordan Wyss; great nieces Quinn Wollner and Evelyn Huff; great nephew Xander Wollner; and her cat Denny. Gayle was proceeded in death by her parents James & Patricia Dimmick, in-laws Harry & Marlene Walkowiak; sister and brother in-law Susan and Tom Morgan; and her special friend Cindie Maranger.

A Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tues. Sept 26, 2023 at Peace Lutheran Church 701 South Century Ave., Waunakee. Friends may call at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services.

Memorials in Gayle’s name can be sent to Community Living Connections or the Dane County Humane Society.

Verse – Luke 6:35: “do good, lend, and expect nothing in return and your reward will be great”

                                                                             Winn-Cress Funeral Home

                                                                                         5785 Hwy Q

                                                                                        Waunakee, WI