Gary R. Stamm

Gary Stamm, age 79, died peacefully at home on January 5, 2022, surrounded by his family after a three-year battle with cancer.

He will be remembered by his family as a wonderful husband and father, and by friends and neighbors as a “good guy” and a “class act.”

Gary was born in Verona, Wisconsin, on November 10, 1942, the second son of Roman “Romie” and Margaret “Marge” Stamm.  He was a life-long resident of the Madison area; he and his wife, Linda, have been Waunakee residents for 50 years.

As a young man, Gary was a talented athlete, first as a varsity point guard on the Verona High School basketball team, later as a competitive bowler at local tournaments, and a golfer with a single-digit handicap. He was also an avid sports fan, particularly of the Green Bay Packers, University of Wisconsin football and basketball teams, and of PGA pros, Steve Stricker and Jerry Kelly.

Gary retired as a service manager for American Family Insurance, where he worked for 33 years.  As Gary himself would later tell the tale, his career in the insurance business began somewhat inauspiciously.  He was a salesman with American Casualty soon after his graduation from Verona High School in 1960.  He reported for work in a beater 1950 Ford coupe that he and his two brothers had pooled their money to purchase, a car their classmates dubbed “the purple people eater.”  Management was not impressed and let Gary know his car was not welcome in the company parking lot.

Much of Gary’s life was centered around time spent with his children, Teresa and Mitchell.  Over the years, this included Saturday morning breakfasts, golf outings, bowling, and boating.  Gary always made time for his children, who remember how patient and supportive he was with their miscues on the golf course and in the bowling alley.  He also took pride in their accomplishments as adults:  Teresa, who is currently a GE Health Care field support specialist serving hospitals and clinics, and Mitchell, a captain and working diver for NOAA and private firms in the Florida Keys.

Gary was very kind to and well-loved throughout his extended family.  His mother could depend on him to escort her to a Friday night fish fry, and afterward, play a few games of cribbage. He always sent meaningful cards on special occasions, be them happy or sad. He introduced his two brothers, Keith and Norm, to the game of golf, a game all three enjoyed playing together.  He also cared deeply for his nieces and nephews, and then, his grandchildren.

Gary’s astute wit and approachable conversation style delighted his many friends over the years. Throughout his lengthy battle with cancer, Gary was courageous.  He never complained. He expressed gratitude to all those who provided his care.  He never lost his sense of humor, even when the struggle got really tough.  And he rallied repeatedly so that he could be with his family for Thanksgiving, then Christmas, then the New Year.  Now, he rests in peace.  

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, and two nieces, Aimee and Colleen.  His survivors include his wife, Linda; daughter, Teresa (Brian) Olson; son, Mitchell; brothers, Keith (Kathleen) and Norm (Bonnie); two grandchildren, Tyler Wolfram and Makayl Olson; and several nieces and nephews.

The family suggests that donations in Gary’s name be made to Agrace HospiceCare.

Interment and a celebration of Gary’s life are pending due to COVID. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420