Jean Ann Gilbertson

I first met Jean when I was in library school and did a practicum in patents. In those days, a young Bill and daughter KC would meet Jean at the end of the work day. I remember the young family. Some years later, I was hired as the head of the Biology Library at the UW. Jean and I served together on several committees and collaborated on projects. During those years we became friends as well as colleagues. Jean was a faithful friend who helped me weather one of the most trying periods of my life,--after a failed back surgery forced me into a life of chronic pain and an early retirement. She visited me often and we would make jigsaw puzzles. During those visits we talked about our lives in a meaningful way. Jean was soft-spoken which sometimes belied the depth of her thoughts and feelings. I knew her to be tender-hearted and kind. Jean introduced me to her mother, Sal, and to Bill. I will always be grateful to Jean and Bill who helped me so much when my mother died. The last time I saw Jean was at the UW Health Fitness Center a few years ago. She smiled when she recognized me and still knew my name. I'm filled with sadness at Jean's untimely departure. I will always remember her with tenderness and affection.

I am so sorry to learn about Jean's passing. She was one of the first librarians I met on the UW Madison campus as I worked down the street for the School of Education. I loved reading about her love of vintage clothes and fashion-from the moment I met Jean she reminded me of the children's book character, Pretty Pretty Peggy Moffit. My condolences to the family on your great loss. Jo Ann Carr

Jean ably and graciously mentored many students at the School of Library and Information Studies while I was teaching the practicum class as well as when I was director. She was a valuable colleague and friend. Louise Robbins

So sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved wife, Bill. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

A friend of mine from Georgia sent me this website. We both went to Rufus King High School with Jean and were blessed to have her as a friend during those years. I spent many days at Jean's house, laughing, dancing to Beatles' records and comparing the notes we received from our penpals in England, again because of the Beatles. She was so much fun and so kind to all of us, and we had a lots of laughs together! Yes, she did love dancing, talking about boys, (remember we were in high school!). Sadly, we lost touch after those years. It sounds like Jean had an exciting life, and a loving family! My prayers are with you!