Gabrielle Lia Maddalena

We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison

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.

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.

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.

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