Gilbert O. Mann (Gil)

Service Details

Services will be held this Friday, March 21st, at Faithbridge Church in Franksville.  Visitation will take place from 4-5 PM with service at 5 PM.

Memorial Suggestions

Gil was generous in life to the causes he loved, and we ask that in lieu of flowers you make any memorial donations to those causes dear to your own heart.

Gilbert O. Mann (Gil), passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the age of 86, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on January 16, 1939, in Racine, WI, to Laverne and Ervin Mann, Gil spent his childhood in Racine and graduated from Horlick High School in 1957. After graduation he embarked on a career that led him from Hamilton Beach, to JI Case Company and then to Walker Manufacturing and Tenneco Automotive, where he ultimately worked as a Warehouse Specialist. His career took him across the country, designing and managing warehouse systems with diligence and expertise.

On November 4, 1972, Gil married the love of his life, Beverly (Ultsch), with whom he shared 52 wonderful years. Beverly remained devoted to his care until his final moments, embodying the same love and commitment that defined their life together.

Gil was known by all as a warm and welcoming presence, always quick with a smile or a joke. His infectious optimism allowed him to find joy in even the most ordinary moments, and he delighted in sharing that perspective with those around him. A selfless and giving man, Gil was always the first to lend a helping hand, consistently putting others before himself.  Gil never met a person whom he couldn’t make friends with, and often would delay family trips by befriending the gas station cashier and sharing his “life story”.

His deep faith and devotion to Franksville United Methodist Church (now Faithbridge) were evident through his years of service in many capacities. One of his proudest accomplishments was overseeing the expansion of the church building to accommodate the growing congregation, a testament to his dedication and love for his church family.

In his younger years, Gil found joy in working on muscle cars, singing, golfing, bowling, and playing cards with friends. As a father, he cherished every stage of his children’s lives, embracing his role with love and enthusiasm. He was endlessly devoted, coaching sports teams and never missing a game or performance. In his later years, he found great happiness in spending time with his grandchildren and family, indulging in car rides, racing sports cars with his son, and searching for the perfect pizza and french fries.

Gil is survived by his beloved wife, Bev; his children Shelley Bell (Rick), Stacy Juga (Doug), Molly Michel (Ken), Christian Mann (Tera), and Katie Jensen (Jacob); his siblings Gerald Mann (Dorothy) and Gretchen Grosnick (Phil); and his cherished grandchildren Logan (Samantha), Kayla, Chelsey, Chase, Ethan, Elijah, Sloane, and Waylynn, along with multiple great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as his canine grandchildren: Ringo, Lady, Lambeau, Lola and Louie. He is also fondly remembered by many extended family members and dear friends who will forever miss his presence in their lives. Gil was preceded in death by his mother, Laverne (Aude), his parents Erv and Margaret Mann, his in-laws Norman and Bessie Ultsch, his dear friend and brother-in-law, Tom Ultsch and sisters in law Judy Ultsch and Kaye Mann.

For the past four years, Gil faced dementia with the same resilience, humor, and optimism that defined his life. Even in the face of this challenge, he continued to bring light and laughter to those around him. Gil’s legacy is one of kindness, faith, and unwavering love for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The family would like to thank Joe from Senior Helpers for the companionship and dignity he provided in Gil’s final months, and also Horizon Hospice for the care and attention they gave to him and the family in his final weeks.