Karl Gillingham

Karl J. Gillingham of Viroqua, WI, formerly of Richland Center and Tomah, WI went home to be with Jesus on November 4th, 2020. 

Karl was born on July 23rd, 1941 to Francis and Helen (McGilvrey).  Being the only child, he was raised by his mother and grandparents.  Finding his passion early in life, God gave him the gift of music.  Karl was known in the area, drumming for Vilas Craig, playing professionally for Bobby G. Rice, and later joining a gospel group, Across the River Jordan band.

Over the years, he was blessed with continuous employment that God laid in his lap.  He was employed by Richland Observer, Shopping News, Burnstad’s (Richland Center and Tomah), Tomah Journal, and Lee Enterprises; Just to name a few!  

Karl was a jack of all trades, and given time, he could fix anything.  He was always putting his spin on things and fixing them to his liking.

He found great enjoyment bass fishing at his favorite ponds.  It was his routine to be on the water by 4:30 am.  He wanted to get out there while the day started fresh and new, not overtaken by the world.  He was also known for his favorite sayings: “Taking a ride in the Big Brass Buick”, “Flying the Marble Kite”, and “What about those Packers!”

Later, influenced by painter Bob Ross, he thought he would paint a few.  He was his worst critic.  They were AMAZING!! God is AMAZING!!  He was truly blessed by God and always thankful!

Dad said, “We are born and then we die…it’s what we do in between that time that counts!!”

Karl leaves behind his three children: Brian (Janice) Gillingham of Norwalk, Brent (Tammy) Gillingham of Richland Center, and Kristine (Brian Swenson) of Viroqua; special niece Robin Clark; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; best friends: Bob and Linda Goad and Gordon “Gordy” Glass; special friends, Peter and Tim Malinger (Image Media, Tomah).

Karl was proceeded in death by his parents; stepfather, Fred Marks; grandparents, George and Maude McGilvrey; and special friend, Linda Helton.

The family would like to thank Roth Family Cremation Center for assisting the family, St. Croix Hospice, and Dad’s “Angel” (Betsy) for early morning visits, care, compassion, and so much love.  Dad knew Betsy was a “gift” from God.  Thank you Dr. Bassett and the team at Gundersen in Viroqua for going above and beyond. Thank you!

A memorial service is being planned by the family for Saturday, November 14th at 10:30 am at the Viroqua Assembly of God church.  Family encourages masks and asks if anyone is ill to kindly not attend.  Thank you for being sensitive to the health concerns of all at this difficult time.  It is greatly appreciated.

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