Gabrielle Lia Maddalena

Gabrielle Lia Maddalena

August 01, 1988 - February 18, 2026

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Obituary

SUN PRAIRIE - Gabrielle Lia “Gabby” Maddalena, age 37, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, inclusion, excellence, and unwavering friendship. Known to all as a woman who never met a stranger, Gabrielle had a rare gift for making everyone she encountered feel seen, welcomed, valued and taken care of.


Raised in The Woodlands, Texas, Gabrielle’s drive and discipline were evident from a young age. Her talent and dedication in the pool led her to the University of Wisconsin, where she swam for the Badgers and competed at the U.S. Olympic trials. This period of her life defined her resilient spirit and gave her a deep-rooted love for the Wisconsin community.


For the past several years, Gabrielle made her home in Sun Prairie, Wis., with her longtime partner, Christopher Cody. Together, they shared a life filled with affection, inside jokes, travels, the love of sports and the company of her three beloved cats, who were a constant source of joy.


Gabrielle took immense pride in everything she did. Whether in her professional life as a Senior Scrum Master or in her personal endeavors, she was recognized for her work ethic and her commitment to excellence. However, her greatest accomplishment was the community she built. She was a natural "includer," always reaching out to ensure no one was left on the sidelines.


Gabrielle’s vibrant memory will be cherished by her partner, Christopher Cody; parents, Pam and Ralph Maddalena; sister and brother-in-law, Christine and Austin Wignall; nephew, Logan Wignall; feline companions, Lincoln, Pickles and Takeoff; and a vast circle of friends spanning from Texas to Wisconsin.


A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.


In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dane County Humane Society. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


"She didn't just enter a room; she made the room better for everyone in it.”


Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420



Events

24
Celebration of Life
Tue Feb 24, 2026 @ 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CDT
Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
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Memories

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Gabrielle
AM
A Memorial Tree was planted for Gabrielle Lia “Gabby” Maddalena
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison
EC
Emily Cheffins
Other •
She was one of a kind and I loved her exactly as she was. She could make me laugh in an instant, and she would do anything just to see me smile. With her, I felt unconditionally loved, seen, and understood without ever having to explain myself. My heart will forever carry every laugh, every adventure, and every misadventure we shared together. I will always think of her with a smile and laughter, even when tears come too. Christine said it perfectly: she didn’t just enter a room; she made it better for everyone in it. And she didn’t just enter my world; she became the heartbeat of my story. I am forever better because she loved me, and loving her will always be one of the greatest privileges of my life.
JH
Jenny Hawkins
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She was the heart of our team, the friendliest voice, the most talkative presence, and one of the hardest workers in the pool. Brilliant, kind, and truly everyone’s friend, she lived and breathed swimming. A Texan through and through, she still loved Wisconsin deeply and was so proud to be a Badger. She made our team stronger and our memories brighter, and she’ll always be part of us.
+ 3
JH
Jen Hannon
Other •
My soul sister. Gabby was like my sister, she always had my back and was always there for me. Through everything, the tough times and the happiest of times. She understood me like no-one else, and we could talk for hours and hours and never get bored (good luck getting 1 word in around us). We suffered together during many long distance sets and kept each other going by singing and talking. We also crushed it together swimming and being so competitive. She held my heart when it was shattered, held my hand when I met the one but didn't know it yet, made me laugh so much all the time, and always had a listening ear. I love you Gabby. Thank you for being an amazing person and always a good friend to me. Rest in peace.
SD
Steve Davidson
Other •
To Gabby’s family & friends, We didn’t work together for long – but even in that short time, Gabby made a real impact. She brought energy, curiosity, and a sense of genuine care that people noticed right away. She will be remembered with deep gratitude and affection. We are incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to know Gabby. American Family Insurance/Technology Team
BW
Bruce A. Williamson
Other •
Ralph and Pam, Kim and I were so very sorry to hear about Gabby. Our thoughts and prayers are with both of you. Bruce and Kim Williamson.

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