Stoughton / McFarland - Keli Sue Gilbertson, age 51, passed away in the early morning after Christmas on December 26, 2017 at Faith Gardens in Sun Prairie. She was born on September 6, 1966 in Madison, Wisconsin, the daughter of Dennis and Sharron (Gibson) Gilbertson. In the 1980's Keli competed in the Special Olympics, earning numerous medals in swimming and running events. Keli graduated from Stoughton High School and worked at MATC after graduation serving food to many people. She had a love for music, dancing, singing, and movies. Keli loved using her hands to color beautiful pictures. She was happiest with the simple things in life and carried these in traditions with Mom and Dad for decades. Keli truly loved and embraced with the best hugs the people around her, especially her Grandma Versa who she had a special bond. She is survived by her mother Sharron Holtz; brothers, Dennis (Laura) Gilbertson and Mike (Marilyn) Gilbertson; nieces and nephews, Rachel, Jack, Cami, Xander, and Theran. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father Dennis in 2006. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at McFarland Lutheran Church, 5529 Marsh Rd., McFarland, with Rev. Timothy Dean presiding. Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 at Cress Funeral Home, 5801 HWY 51, McFarland. Additional visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of services on Wednesday at Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Faith Gardens, Special Olympics of Wisconsin, or the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin. The family wishes to thank everyone at Faith Gardens for their care and a special thank you to Pastor Dean for always being there for the family. "We miss you, Peaches."
Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com.
Cress Funeral Home
5801 HWY 51
McFarland, WI 53558
(608) 838-0655
Tributes
Perry Ankerson wrote on Jan 2, 2018:
"I have many happy and fond memories of Keli, Sharron, and Denny during my time in Madison. I was honored many times to be invited to their home for dinner or to watch a Packer game. Keli's smiles and energy were always present which made my visits even more memorable. She was a joy to be around."
Gary Gilbertson wrote on Jan 2, 2018:
"On many of my trips to see Denny and Sharron I was met by Keli opening the front door. "Hi uncle Gary you want to see my Dad, I will get him". "Dad uncle Gary is here". Denny arrived, "Thank you Peaches". "Uncle Gary my dad is Silly, he calls me peaches". And I always said in return "Keli you are his peaches". I will miss you peaches. Gary G."
Lois Corwin wrote on Dec 29, 2017:
"Keli was one of the sweetest girls I ever knew....a soul full of kindness. Her dad, Denny, cherished her. I know that Denny was there in Heaven greeting her with open arms. I know they are happy together. Lois"