WOW....what a guy! Larger than life? My thoughts exactly. Such a beloved Chilton resident who always had the city's best interest at heart. I was stunned to hear of Gerry's passing, and it hurts to know I'm not going to run into him around Chilton or at Auto Source. I will miss his grin and teasing. Patti, you will be in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time....

Lynn Merino (Friend) 2023-11-27 18:47:40

My condolences to the whole Vanne family for the loss of Gerry. He was truly a “citizen “ of Chilton who knew everyone and genuinely cared about everyone. My prayers for a blessed reunion in Heaven, and comfort and strength in the days to come.

Ted Pierce (Friend ) 2023-11-27 15:02:49

Sorry to hear of his passing. Was a great guy from my experience. He will understand this part. I knew he should have gotten the VAX!!!!

Ken Eisch (Coworker ) 2023-11-21 16:06:49

My sincere condolences to the whole family.I didn't know many, but went to school with Peggy and Deb. So sorry for your loss.Linda

Linda M Steffes (friend of Peggy and Deb) 2023-11-19 11:32:35

Gerry you were a great guy that touched the hearts of so many in our community. I was grateful to know you. Thanks for shining your light onto us. Rest in peace you'll be missed.

Hunter Bunnell (Previous coworker ) 2023-11-19 11:04:36

Sending condolences to all the Vanne families. Gerry was surely one of Chilton's memorable fellows! He always had a smile and a Hello for all RIP GERRY!

Jim and Kathy Muenster (Fellow Chiltonites) 2023-11-19 10:21:13

Vanne family, I'm sorry I couldn't attend the service today. I was planning on it, but like John Lennon said, "Life is what happens while your making other plans." My condolences & sympathies to you all and blessings on Gerry. He and I got closer over the past couple of years. I will miss him. Sláinte!

Chad Muenster (Friend) 2023-11-18 09:35:45

Patty, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to you. Gerry tip toed and tromped through my life. He was there several times when I needed a friend and he just appeared. You know best the quality person he was. He will be missed. The pain that you are feeling is a symbol of the love you two had for each other. Let it be an eternal reminder of everything you have gained from sharing your life with him. From my heart to yours. Lets talk later.

Faden Fulleylove-Krause (Friend) 2023-11-18 08:19:22

My sympathy and prayers to all of Gerry’s family. Mom was thrilled that Gerry & the Vanne siblings came for a visit this past year!

Sue Stadtmueller Kees (Childhood Neighbor ) 2023-11-18 06:53:23

We are so sorry to hear Gerry passed away, our sympathy to the family. He touched many lives. He had a very contagious smile...you couldnt help but smile back. He will be missed at our lunches. May he rest in peace.

Bill & Jean Overesch (Friend and coworker) 2023-11-17 09:47:26

To the entire Vanne clan, I want to send my most sincere condolences for your deep loss. Gerry was a unique personality and a good father and grandfather. I'm sure he will be greatly missed.

Pamela Beyer (Chad's & Travis's mom) 2023-11-16 15:17:22

So sorry for your loss! We will miss his sassy attitude and kindness at 7 angels!

Stephanie Koller (Favorite waitress) 2023-11-16 10:16:15

We are so sorry to hear that Gerry had passed away. He was kind, thoughtful and had the best smile. He brought Donny to see our Dad and that brought smiles to everyone. Our deepest sympathy to the entire Vanne family. From the Albedylls

JoAnne Albedyll Hollmann (S Madison St neighbor) 2023-11-16 09:13:06

Our sympathy to Jerry' wife and family. He always had time to stop and talk with us. May he rest in peace.

art and joyce kopf (Friend) 2023-11-15 20:30:24

Rest in peace Gerrry. You lived your life to the fullest. You made many people laugh and be happy

Mary Thompson (Friend and neighbor ) 2023-11-15 20:11:26

Patty and Family - We are so sorry. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Gerry was a great guy. We will always remember all the good times that we had as former neighbors. So many great memories to cherish. Our condolences to the entire Vanne family. He will be missed.

Nick & Tamara Geiser and Family (Friend ) 2023-11-15 15:53:24

Gerry was a wonderful person who came aboard at the newspaper doing whatever was needed. He was fun to be around and extremely dedicated to the company. So glad to have known him.

Kay Schaefer-Vercauteren (Newspaper Friend) 2023-11-14 19:15:37

Patty So sorry for your loss. You, your family and all of Chilton lost a great one. He was always supportive of Chilton and all us business people. It was him who assisted me in purchasing my business restate. He will never be forgotten.

Kim and Nancy McKeen (Friends) 2023-11-14 14:07:22

Our condolences to the entire Vanne Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. So many good memories of sharing time growing up with the Vanne's. God Bless You All!

Carole Stadtmueller Martinco (Neighbor Growing Up In Same Neighborhood) 2023-11-14 11:31:39

So sorry to hear of this Jerry was a great man he was always helping others. Prayers for your family ????

Betty Gumz (Friend ) 2023-11-14 11:25:54

My sincere condolences to your entire family.

Mary Jo (Bonlander) Anhalt (classmate (Chad)) 2023-11-14 08:24:55

Patty and family we are so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. He will be deeply missed by many. I remember the many times he came to my house on Grand Street whenever I had an issue with just about anything. A real great guy!!

Bob and Jackie Schneider (Friend) 2023-11-13 22:10:34

Dear Family of Gerry Vanne! The news of Gerry’s passing is quite troubling! I am so sorry for your loss and want you to know you are all in my thoughts and prayers! I so enjoyed seeing and talking with him whenever we met in the Chilton community, at Auto Source or over a good Old Fashioned at Schwarz’s Supper Club! God Bless you all!

Tim Schaid (Friend ) 2023-11-13 19:35:39

Patty, My deepest sympathy for your loss. Donna

Donna LaBrec (Friend) 2023-11-13 16:43:12

I am so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. He was such a great guy he always had a story to tell when I’d see him out and about. May he Rest In Peace.

Rita Diener (Friend) 2023-11-13 13:21:14

Our deepest condolences to the entire family! Gerry was so friendly and always there with the great big wave as we passed by. You will be in our thoughts and prayers in the days, weeks, months ahead. Rest in peace, Gerry!

Randy and Tami Goeser family (Neighbor) 2023-11-13 11:58:59

Dear Patty and Becky and families - I am very sorry to hear of Gerry's passing. Whenever I saw him I couldn't help but smile because he always had that smile and laugh that was contagious. Great guy! He'll be missed be all who knew him. Take good care my friends :)

Ivan Wenig (Friend) 2023-11-13 11:31:44

Our deepest sympathy to all of Gerry's loved ones. May the Good Lord Bless you all.

John & Gladys Michels (friend) 2023-11-13 10:41:23

Patty and Family my sincere sympathies and condolences to all of you with Gerry's passing, he will be missed by so very many. Always a smile from ear to ear and a wonderful hello whenever we'd meet. He was an attribute to the community and will forever be etched in our memories. Keep his memories alive as you traverse on without him. Forever in our hearts.

Jane Barany (Friend {former co-worker at CMC}) 2023-11-13 10:30:13

Dear Patty, it took me a few days to write this as hearing the news of Gerry's passing was hard. He and I spent many years on the city council together and I am very confident the city is in a very good spot today in part because of Gerry's years of service as an alderman and, eventually Mayor. More importantly though, in life, Gerry truly cared about all people and always did things to show he cared. After having a house fire in 2005 Gerry found out where we were staying and came to see what he could do to help out. In 2007 shortly after having a heart attack we needed a new element put in our stove. A call to Gerry had it fixed in short order but he would not take any money for the repair or part. He just simply told me to take care and get better. Later in 2007 I lost my job at Brillion Iron Works. A few nights later there was a knock on the door. You guessed it, it was Gerry there to say how bad he felt when he heard but again, wondering if there was anything he could do. That was simply Gerry, always there to help. May God grant eternal rest onto him and give you and your family the strength to carry on without him in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Mark Willems (Friend) 2023-11-13 10:23:39

Sending hugs and sympathy to all. I bet Dave was there to greet him. We always liked Gerry!

Cindy Berth (Friend) 2023-11-13 09:34:08

Gerry - an authentic man who served his community and loved his family. Always great conversation, smile and a chuckle! Prayers, light and love during this time of your loss. Hold the memories. I'm sure he will be making his mark to remind you he's with you, Patty and family.

Sheila & Keith Oakley (Friend) 2023-11-13 08:33:03

Patty, sons, grandchildren and sisters/brothers. My heart is very sad at the passing of Gerry. Patty, you and Gerry always went out of your way to visit us here in Florida…Gerry could always bring a smile to my face. He brought much happiness and joy to those around him. RIP Gerry. I love you

Joyce Dewey Soares (Cousin in Florida) 2023-11-13 07:06:12

Patty l am so sorry for your loss.Gerry was one of kind.He made me laugh all time.Now his passing makes me cry.You made him a great person.I will always have you in my heart.Loved you both.loved you both.Uncle Bob.

Bob Vanne (Uncle) 2023-11-13 07:03:58

Patty l am so sorry for your loss.Gerry was one of kind.He made me laugh all time.Now his passing makes me cry.You made him a great person.I will always have you in my heart.Loved you both.loved you both.Uncle Bob.

Bob Vanne (Uncle) 2023-11-13 06:41:43

You were so much more then a co worker, friend, patron. I looked to you for advise, your wisdom , your smile and laughter. You were one of the good ones!!! I always smiled and was happy to see you and Patty because you are like family. I will miss you buddy ????. Forever my A team partner

Connie Voss (Friend) 2023-11-13 06:15:27

You were so much more then a co worker, friend, patron. I looked to you for advise, your wisdom , your smile and laughter. You were one of the good ones!!! I always smiled and was happy to see you and Patty because you are like family. I will miss you buddy ????. Forever my A team partner

Connie Voss (Friend) 2023-11-13 06:15:03

Our deepest sympathies to the family.

Randy Vanne Jr & Ohana (Cousin) 2023-11-13 00:12:00

Patty, Chad, Travis and family. I’m so sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed the chats with Gerry whenever we crossed paths. You are in our families thoughts and prayers.

Nathan Beyer (Family ) 2023-11-12 21:59:03

We're so sorry to hear about the passing of Gerry. May the special memories you made together help you through this difficult time.

Charlene & Terry Euclide (Friend) 2023-11-12 21:08:29

I am so so sorry for your loss of a wonderful, fun, loving husband, dad, friend, and my cousin. Our family lost another great person today. He will be missed by many.

Tina Vanne (Cousin) 2023-11-12 20:03:49

What can we say? Gerry was always encouraging and supportive in any endeavor we have been on. Patty, you as well. He was a great friend and he would do anything to help you. He will be truly missed around town. The community has surely lost a great citizen. May He rest in Peace.

Buzz and Pam Laughrin (Friend) 2023-11-12 19:49:43

We are so sorry to hear of Gerry passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We sure will miss our chats with Gerry on our walks by the house. You have our deepest sympathy!

Eric and Michelle Thede (Neighbor) 2023-11-12 19:28:07

Patty, Chad, Travis and families, so sorry for your loss. Gerry will live on in your memories. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Rick and Peggy Kees (Family) 2023-11-12 18:14:10

My thoughts and prayers are with the family.??????????

Jill Kutchenriter (Friend ( graduated with Gerry) ) 2023-11-12 18:10:46

We are very sorry to hear of Gerry's passing. We will miss his charismatic personality & his kindness. I will surely miss riding with Uncle Bob to Chilton to bug him while he waits for Patty to get home from work, & Gerry, Uncle Bob finally got his 3 wheeler we were encouraging him to get. We will miss you dearly, but I know you will be riding beside us. Until we meet again, rest in peace. Our condolences to the entire Vanne family.

Bob & Marie Schultz (Cousin) 2023-11-12 18:10:32

Patty and family, So sorry to hear about your loss. Gerry was a guy that could always put a smile on your face! My prayers and thoughts to all the Vanne family.

Sharon Hertel (Friend ) 2023-11-12 17:22:48

Patty and Family, so sorry to hear of the loss of Gerry, he has helped me so much in the past, my condolences.

Pat Basler (Friend) 2023-11-12 16:22:34

Sorry to hear about passing of Gerry. Thoughts and prayers to family. Gerry was a great man, hardworking, loved his stories and jokes. Loved working with him at Gannett Newspapers, and loved socializing at work parties. Miss him lots. Prayers.

Al & Melissa Van Handel (Friends and co worker) 2023-11-12 16:00:37

Patty we are so sorry for your loss. He’s your guardian angel to watch over you and your family. Deepest sympathy

Vicki Oney (Friend) 2023-11-12 16:00:03

Patty and family we are so very sorry for your loss. Gerry was a great guy and will be missed by many. He touched so many lives. Whenever we had an appliance issue, he was always right there to help. Hugs!

Dave and Carol Mallmann (Friend) 2023-11-12 15:32:45

Rip Gerry may you rest in peace and fly high with the beautiful wings that was given by the angels you were a great kind hearted guy that would give your shirt off to help someone out may your family have peace God be with you and your family you will not be forgotten.

Michelle and Dan swette (Friend ) 2023-11-12 15:26:38

Travis and Chad--- I have known your dad for a very long time. He was always so happy and had a great big smile when you saw him. You have my deepest sympathy and my thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest in peace Jerry!

karen swonger (Pete Pingels mom) (friend) 2023-11-12 13:43:19

To Patty and Family.I am very sorry for your loss.Gerry was one of the good ones.

Joseph Lecher (Ex husband ) 2023-11-12 13:21:09

Patty, so sorry to hear of your loss. Keeping you and the rest of the family in my thoughts and prayers.

Lisa Giesen (Friend ) 2023-11-12 12:01:22

Patty,Chad,Travis and family, you have our deepest sympathy. Gerry would always have something cheerful to say to bring a smile.He was a great brother in law and greater friend.Rest in peace Gerry.

Jo Ann & Terry Beyer (Family and friend) 2023-11-12 11:29:41

Patty and Chad and Travis Jeff are I send our condolences and prayers to you. Gerry will not be forgotten. He had a larger than life personality and always a smile on his face for everyone. Rest in peace Gerry and continue to watch over your family as they will need to feel you with them

Stephanie Lemke (Family member ) 2023-11-12 11:13:29

To the Vanne Family: we are saddened by your loss, you have our deepest sympathy. Gerry was a good guy.

Greg and Sue Schenkus (Travis' ex in laws) 2023-11-12 10:48:31

So sorry to hear of Gerry's passing. He always had such great stories to tell us! Hugs and prayers sent.

Candy & Tom Roberts (Friends) 2023-11-12 09:26:55

Patty, We are so very sorry to hear of this devastating loss.You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers ????

Gail Thiel (Friend ) 2023-11-12 08:19:05

Patty,Chad,Travis and family. So sorry to hear about Gerry. He was first a brother in law and then was still a good friend. Always smiling and talking to anyone and everyone. Rest in peace Gerry ?

Larry and Jody Ditter (Family and friend ) 2023-11-12 08:16:48

Our condolences to the whole warm family I was able to talk with Jerry earlier this month. He was a man who always had the biggest smile. We will always miss him Linda and I were blessed to know him

Larry Bangart (Friends Of The whole family ) 2023-11-12 07:39:50

To Patty and the whole family from me and my wife, I'm so sorry for your loss. Gerry was a great friend we worked together at the newspaper and sometimes he would stop out after work or golf with us going to miss him always making us laugh God bless you and your whole family. Going to miss you, Gerry RIP G-force

Mr &Mrs Michael n Jodi Cronk (Friend ) 2023-11-12 07:38:24

Patty and family, we are so very sorry. Our deepest condolences. We were shocked to get the call from Keith. Our hearts go out to all the Vanne family. Rest in peace, Gerry.

Ken and Sharon Steinhoff (friend) 2023-11-12 00:07:49

I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was such a fun loving wonderful guy that will be missed by many including myself. My condolences.

Crazy (Friend) 2023-11-11 21:39:58

Patty and family I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs sent to all. Gerry was a great friend

Sandy Dietz (Friend ) 2023-11-11 20:07:45

Patty and family, Doug and I are so very very sorry for your loss. Gerry was a great guy and we had lots of fun and adventures with you two. He will be missed.

Shari Daun (Friend ) 2023-11-11 19:43:37

Patty and family I was so very sad to hear this. I’m thankful I got to see and talk to you both at church that time I was in town. Sending you my sincere sympathies and big hugs my friend.

Ellie Hilton (Friend ) 2023-11-11 17:09:59

Patty, Becky, and family, I am so sorry to learn of your loss and send my deepest sympathy. Wishing you peace, comfort, and many great memories to keep with you.

Judy Woelfel (New Holstein) 2023-11-11 16:46:05

Patty & family you have our deepest sympathy.

Karen Schmitz (Friend) 2023-11-11 16:08:44

Patty, Chad, Travis and familiy So very sorry for your loss. Gerry and Gordy could sit and talk for hours about life, family, and good old times. We go back many years. His life was too short. May he rest in peace.

Jane and Gordy Loose (Family and friend) 2023-11-11 14:37:56