Jim Gaska, age 66, passed away on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at his home in Fitchburg, Wis. He was born on April 23, 1960, in Chicago, Ill., the son of John and Carolyn (Klema) Gaska, and the middle child of three. The family later moved to Monona, Wis.

Jim was a hard worker from a young age, and bought himself a red mustang while in high school. He graduated from Monona Grove in 1978 and worked at the UW Hospital for nearly 40 years.

Growing up, Jim enjoyed playing board games and cards with neighbor kids and cousins and made it a tradition at every family get-together. He was close to his maternal grandparents and cousins, spending weeks on “the farm” in the summer, helping his grandfather mow and exploring the woods, where he and his closest cousin, Rick, built an elaborate treehouse. He was an animal lover and enjoyed being outdoors in the sun.

Jim had natural rhythm, was an excellent drummer and dancer, and used to go dancing every weekend. He was a sensitive guy and always expressed his love for his mom and dad at the end of every visit and every phone call. He was easily moved to tears when reminiscing about loved ones who had passed.

Jim frequently talked with both of his siblings for hours at a time. His unconditional love, generosity, and comedic sense of humor will be sorely missed. He had been struggling with some health issues recently and said he was looking forward to being with his mom in Heaven someday soon.

Jim was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents; mother, Carolyn “Jean” (Klema) Gaska; godfather/uncle and aunt, Rich and Nancy Gaska; godmother/aunt and uncle, Dorothy and Harry Overly; uncle and aunt, Phil and Mae Klema; cousins, Rick Gaska, Rick Overly and Donald Overly; and best friend, Randy Faulkner.

He is survived by his father, John T. Gaska; brother, John J. (Jan) Gaska; sister, Deb Lichtfeld; nephew, John Jr. (Minju) Gaska; niece, Jenna (Tom) Pohl; great-nephew, Oscar; great-niece, Owen; uncle and aunt, Walt and Jean Gallas; uncle and aunt, Bob and Bunny Gaska; and many cousins and friends.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

James Edward "Jim" Gaska

April 23, 1960 - October 27, 2026

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