FITCHBURG, WI - Vicki J. Giese, 74, of Fitchburg, WI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Meriter Hospital, surrounded by her devoted daughters, after a brief illness.

Born on July 2, 1951, to John and Louise Yonts, Vicki grew up with a creative spirit and a kind heart that would define her entire life. A proud graduate of Beloit Memorial High School’s Class of 1969, she met the love of her life, Randall Giese, and married him on October 4 of that same year. Together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and family. Randall preceded her in death exactly 11 years earlier - a reflection of the deep bond they shared.

Vicki was an artist in every sense of the word - an avid quilter, painter, gardener, chef, basket maker, clarinet player, and bird watcher. When she wanted to improve her painting skills, she took classes at the local college and learned from Bob Ross and other painting videos. When she couldn’t find a basket-making class after moving, she simply created one and began teaching others. Music was another of Vicki’s great joys. She played her clarinet in multiple community bands and loved making friends and playing concerts. Vicki possessed a remarkable sense of humor and a quick wit. She had a knack for clever observations and playful quips that could brighten any room.

Vicki had a lifelong love of animals, especially cats, and shared that compassion with her children and grandchildren. Her home was always brighter for the pets she welcomed and cared for over the years.

Above all, Vicki’s greatest pride and deepest joy were her family - especially her beloved granddaughters. They were the center of her world. She cherished teaching them to sew, quilt, and paint, passing along not just skills but her love of creating. She encouraged their musical interests with thoughtful gifts of instruments. Game nights were treasured times, with Quiddler being a particular favorite. She created memories that will live on in our hearts forever.

Vicki is lovingly survived by her daughters, Karen Kollath and Christina (David) Blakley; granddaughters, Madelyn Blakley, Maribel Blakley and Halle Kollath; sister, Judith Withee; sisters-in-law, Cheryl (Ernst) Kopecky and Linda Bordo; brother-in-law, Larry Giese; many nieces and nephews; lifelong best friends, Robert and Diana Rowland; and friend, Jeff Fluck. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Randall; parents; mother-in-law, Phyllis Giese; father-in-law, Ardath Giese; brothers-in-law, Scott Giese, Lyall Withee and Vern Bordo; and sister-in-law, Sharon Giese.

A celebration of Vicki’s life will be held in Wisconsin at a later date. In honor of her deep love for animals, memorial donations may be made to the Dane County Humane Society or to a charity of your choice. Those wishing to share memories or photos are invited to visit www.gundersonfh.com.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics and Meriter Hospital for their compassionate care.

Vicki’s creativity, humor, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will remain woven into the lives of all who knew her - a lasting legacy of warmth, color, and joy.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761

Vicki Giese

July 02, 1951 - February 04, 2026

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