Gordon Norman Stendahl

WESTBY/MONONA-Uff-da, a very proud Norwegian, Gordy Stendahl, age 74, passed away unexpectedly from illness on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016, in Madison. He was born on July 14, 1942, the oldest son of Noble and Gladys (Ihle) Stendahl. Growing up in a small farming community he always cherished his lifelong friendships there. Gordy graduated from Westby High School in 1960, where he was an honor student, athlete and competitive ski jumper with the Junior Snowflake Ski Club. Much of Gordy's youth was devoted to Boy Scout activities and at the age of 16 he earned the distinguished Eagle Scout rank, an accomplishment he always cherished. After graduation he moved to Madison, where he received his Culinary Arts Degree which led to a position managing The Congress. There he met the owner's daughter, Janie Nolen and they married on May 22, 1971, at St. Raphael's Cathedral in Madison. His love for people and the restaurant industry led Gordy and Janie to own and operate Leske's Supper Club for over 30 years where he was a leader in the Monona community. In 2002, not quite ready for retirement, Gordy joined the team at Park Bank in a job that suited his outgoing personality. He was a community supporter through his longstanding involvement with the Monona Grove Business Men's Association and the Monona Lions Club, amongst many others. Gordy was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed cheering and tailgating for the Packers and Brewers and was a loyal Badgers football season ticket holder for over 50 years. Gordy is survived by his wife, Janie of 45 years; daughters, Jill Stendahl, Zoe (Chad) Holz and Britt (Jim) Leach; grandchildren, Brodie, Sadie and Hudson Holz and Blake and Liam Leach; sister, Sandy Larson; sister-in-law, Joyce Stendahl; and many nieces, nephews and loyal friends. After raising three daughters, he was overjoyed to be the grandfather of four energetic boys and one sweet girl who shares his birthdate. He was preceded in death by his parents; and younger brother, Dewey Stendahl. Please join the family at TULLY'S II (formerly Leske's) for a "Toast to Gordy", 6401 Monona Dr., Monona, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., on Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016. There will also be a Celebration of Life at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 to share memories and exchange stories. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420