Alzeda Evelyn Gilbertson

MIDDLETON-Alzeda "Sal" Gilbertson, age 86, passed away on Monday, May 2, 2011 at HospiceCare in Fitchburg. She had just celebrated her 86th birthday while a patient at UW Hospital. She was born on April 14, 1925, in Rozellville, and was raised by extended family that included her mother Ida and step-father John Salava of Boscobel. Sal grew up in Boscobel, graduating from High School in 1942. She met her husband to be, Glen Gilbertson in mid-1944 and they were married a few months later on December 21, 1944 in Dodgeville. After living a few years in Boscobel and Avoca, they moved to Milwaukee in 1950 with their two year old daughter Jean, Sal's mother Ida, and Sal's sister Ruth. Sal was a smart, strong-willed and fiercely independent woman throughout her lifetime. She worked in retail sales in the Milwaukee area for many years and just recently said that she would love to still be working. In 1976, Sal and Glen moved to their retirement home at Avoca Lake. They later moved to Waupaca and then to Middleton in 1986 where they resided at the Voss Haus. They enjoyed traveling, especially bus trips, as well as trips to Pennsylvania for Glen's World War II reunions Over the years at the Voss Haus, Sal and Glen made many wonderful friendships. After Glen's death in 2002, Sal continued to live at the Voss Haus until her passing Sal was a great problem solver, a good listener, and was kind to everyone. She loved to visit with people she knew well and people she just met. Sal's family regrets that her recent illness made it difficult for her to maintain her many contacts with friends and family. Sal is survived by her daughter, Jean (Bill Rettig) Gilbertson of Madison; a granddaughter, KC Gilbertson-Rettig of Madison; a sister, Ruth Caldiero of Milwaukee and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, step-father and her loving husband, Glen. In her last two months, Sal got great strength from her faith and the clergy from her home church, Good Shepherd. Being able to spend her last days at HospiceCare, Inc. in Fitchburg with her immediate family, clergy and comfort/caregivers made her passing easier. A private burial service will be held at Avoca Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sal's memory can be made to the Middleton Senior Center or to the charity of your choice. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sal's memory can be made to the Middleton Senior Center or to the charity of your choice Cemetery: A private burial service will be held at Avoca Cemetery Service: A private burial service will be held at Avoca Cemetery