Virginia L. Gieselman

MADISON- Virginia L. Gieselman, 99, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2009, at the Capitol Lakes Health Center (formerly Meriter Health Center). A native Madisonian, Virginia was born on Aug. 7, 1909, to Carl and Mae Hoebel. She married Dr. J.Howell Gieselman on Oct. 18, 1930. They enjoyed 62 wonderful years of marriage in their home on Monona Bay until his death in 1992. They enjoyed many activities together including Couples Club at Christ Presbyterian Church, bridge clubs, Owls dance club and the Astronomical Society. Virginia was a life long member of Christ Presbyterian Church. She was an active and contributing member of the church, serving as an elder for many years. Virginia had an avid interest and was an active participant in civic affairs. She was a president of the Madison PTA Council and director and board member of the YWCA. She was honored in 1952 by Theta Sigma Phi Journalism Sorority as toastmistress of the year, chosen from 500 of Madison's outstanding women. Virginia was a member of the Madison Board of Health for 17 years, also serving as president of that organization. In 1962, Dr. Charles Kincaid, City Health Commissioner, created the position of health aide to assist school nurses. He appointed Virginia as the first health aide to work in the Madison school system, counting on her to develop the potential of the position. She served at several different schools until her retirement in 1974. One of the most important things in Virginia's life was her involvement in Chapter H of the PEO Sisterhood, a philanthropic organization whose mission is promoting educational opportunities for women. She was a member for 63 years, and a past president. Virginia is survived by her son, Dick (Betty) Gieselman, St. Charles, Mo.; a daughter, Nancy (Bill) Horne of Madison, three grandchildren, Julie Manchester, Tampa, Fla, John Gieselman, Millersville, Mo., Bev Horne, Aurora, Ill.; three great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank the staff at Capitol Lakes for their wonderful care of Virginia these past two years. Special thanks also to HospiceCare for their kind, compassionate support and care during the last few months of Virginia's life. MADISON- Virginia L. Gieselman, 99, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 11, 2009. A memorial service will be held at CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 944 E. Gorham Street, on Friday, May 8, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Glen Reichelderfer officiating.   A visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services. Virginia's full obituary may be viewed at cressfuneralservice.com.