We were all stunned this week to learn that Gary Gisselman, a dear friend of St. Anthony’s, died August 9. He was a kind, humble, gentle soul, and he will be missed by many, not only here at St. Anthony’s but also in the wider community.
Gary wore many hats in life – teacher, librarian, historian, elected representative at both city and county level, Board member for numerous organizations – and his love for Wausau and the Marathon County community drew him into many different volunteer opportunities. Gary’s love of history and books was a natural connection here at St. Anthony’s. Some may remember Gary from his volunteer service in the Bookstore on retreat weekends for many years.
Or you might have met Gary at any one of a number of retreats at St. Anthony’s. He would often join us for days of reflection, the New Year’s Eve retreat, various contemplative retreats as well as our annual Franciscan Living retreat. As Fr. Dan Crosby might say, Gary had a Franciscan heart – devoted to the service of others and his community.
Gary joined the Board of Directors in 2015 as the Board was formulating plans for the celebration of St. Anthony’s Centennial in 2019, and he continued to serve on the Board until his death. His knowledge of local history and his connection with the Marathon County Historical Society proved a valuable asset on the Centennial Planning Committee.
Barb C. worked with Gary on planning the Centennial celebrations. She shared that Gary wrote some beautiful history articles for this event, one being “A Northwoods Friary”. He was instrumental in helping the committee document the history of St. Anthony’s from its beginning in 1917 through the celebration and in the process he discovered historical pictures that supported his information. She said, “He had a calm demeanor and a head full of information. You could tell his mind was always working, searching, investigating and sharing. Gary sparked a lot of enthusiasm with his work.”
On the Board, he was an attentive listener, and when he spoke you knew he had put much thought and consideration into his comments. For the last six years, Gary also served as corporate secretary, keeping the minutes of all the Board meetings. He was dedicated to ensuring the ongoing success of St. Anthony’s.
For the gifts of all the years of Gary’s humble and dedicated service, we say Deo Gratias! And farewell, dear friend. We will miss you.
Indeed we will! I am confident that Gary and Joanie W. are surely having a happy reuniting and reunion in heaven. Bless both their souls.
One more light up in the sky tonight!
Inviting Gary to join the St. Anthony board was one of the best things I had ever done to help St. Anthony succeed during the early years of lay leadership. That he actually accepted the invitation was remarkable, given his other commitments. Gary was a joy to work with, a great team member and a genuine servant leader. Rest in peace, Gary.