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- Gayle (Vander Velden) Hammen, age 76 of Kimberly transitioned peacefully on November 30, 2016, in the presence of her family.
Gayle was born on October 13, 1940, the daughter of Elmer and Bonnie (Morris) Vander Velden. On November 17, 1960, Gayle married Allen "Newk" Hammen, a childhood sweetheart and a love relationship that spanned 66 years.
Gayle is survived by her spouse, and two daughters, Holly Hammen, Bloomington, MN; and Wendy Huss (Bill Huss), Sherwood, WI; four grandchildren, Michael Giese, Meridian, ID; Joseph Giese, Troy, AL; Haley Huss, Sherwood, WI; and Megan Huss, Sherwood, WI. Gayle is also survived by her brothers, Lee (Carol) Vander Velden, Columbia, Maryland; and Wes (Cathie) Vander Velden, Appleton, WI; her sisters-in-law, Joan Hammen, Combined Locks, WI; and Shirley (Glen) Puls, Town of Dale, WI; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Gayle was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, Joseph and Viola Hammen; and brothers-in-law, Ronald and Tom Hammen.
Gayle's work career began early as a waitress at the Skillet, and after high school, Gayle was employed by the Wisconsin-Michigan Power Company. As Gayle raised a family, she was a frequent volunteer at Westside and Janssen Elementary schools. Her volunteer work turned into full-time work at Janssen Elementary where she instructed children in computer technology.
Following retirement, Gayle pursued all of her passions. She and Newk hosted many gatherings at their summer home at Lake Poygan, Winneconne, Wisconsin. During the winter months, Gayle and Newk enjoyed being winter-Texans at Palma Reseca, Brownsville, Texas. Gayle's favorite pastime was watching sports, and her most favorite sporting events were watching her granddaughters play. After years of being a die-hard Kimberly fan, Gayle learned how to proudly cheer "Go Kaukauna"! Finally for those that knew Gayle well, she will be remembered most for her sharp mind, quick wit, ability to throw a great party, love for a cold beer, hearty laugh and warm smile.
It was Gayle's wish to be cremated and to be remembered not at a funeral, but in a celebration of her life. The family invites those that knew Gayle to join them by sharing a story, a tear, a laugh, or a memory of Gayle as they gather at Countryside Golf Club, W726 Weiler Road, Kaukauna, WI 54130 on Saturday, December 10, 2016, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
There are no plans for a memorial, gifts or donations at this time.
If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfuneralhomeinc.com.
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1940 - 2016 (76 years)
