Lorraine Helen Gilbertson of Chetek died September 5, 2023.

She was born to Frank and Elizabeth (nee Kurth) Bahneman on May 6, 1927, in Racine, Wisconsin. She was married to Robert (Bob) Gilbertson in 1949 in Racine.

In 1961 Bob and Lorraine moved to Chetek where they owned and operated The Natural Cove Resort until 1973. They were blessed with sons Mark (Lynne), Kurt, Paul (Chris), Jeff (Maria) and Tommy. Lorraine was an adventurous grandmother to Kurt, Jill, Erika, Chelsea, Shyla, Luke, Patricia, Alexander, Taylor, Phillip, and their spouses. She had many great-grandchildren. She was a beloved aunt to Brian and Bill (Daniela), and great nephews and nieces. As an only child, having a large family was a blessing to her.

As her boys grew Lorraine returned to school graduating with a Master’s Degree in Education at UW-Eau Claire. She was a wonderful teacher and reading specialist in Chetek area schools for many years. She loved teaching. Lorraine had a lifelong passion for learning that she passed on to her children and grandchildren. After retiring, she and Bob traveled extensively and built a snowbird home in Florida. They were active in the churches they attended and had many friends throughout the world.

She tried to always find the good in people and she didn't believe in complaining. She was an involved community member and will always be remembered as showing kindness to all - at church, family members, camping, water aerobics, or anywhere else you would run into her around the community.

A celebration service will be held at Chetek Lutheran Church on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 11:00 am. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am before the service. After the service, the family invites those attending to lunch in the church’s fellowship hall. A private family burial will be held.

In lieu of flowers, Lorraine requested donations be made to the Chetek-Weyerhaeuser High School Scholarship Fund at https://sites.google.com/view/chetekscholarships/home (Venmo, PayPal, credit card, check options). Please note her name in the instructions or the check memo. Thank you.

She was well-loved and will be missed by family and friends.

Last Update: Sep 10, 2023 1:23 pm CDT