Nancy K. Gillette, age 75, of Tomah, passed away on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Mayo Clinic in La Crosse. She was born February 24, 1951, to Roy and Norma (Zahrte) Robinson. Nancy graduated from Tomah High School in 1969. She was united in marriage to Wayne Gillette on May 29, 1971, and they were blessed with two daughters, Alicia and Rebecca. It was rare to see Nancy without Wayne, and vice versa. Whether they were taking a country ride to explore back roads, fishing, shining deer, polka dancing, or simply doing yardwork side by side, they shared life’s everyday moments together.
Nancy devoted her life to caring for others in both her work and her everyday actions. She worked for a short time at The Bassinett children’s clothing store, drove the mini bus for the Tomah Area School district, worked as a school aide at Lemonweir, and served as a clerk at LaGrange School for 22 years. She had a special way of connecting with children, and students always remembered her. Her presence made a difference in the lives of many, and her dedication was evident in the thoughtful way she carried out every responsibility.
She was known for being intentional in everything she did. Nancy always cared for others and paid attention to the little things that meant so much to people. She was extremely supportive and had a heart that naturally reached out to those in need of encouragement. Her kindness was steady and sincere, and those who knew her could always count on her to offer a helping hand, a comforting word, or a reassuring smile. She had a great sense of humor and a twinkle in her eye that brought joy to those around her.
Nancy lived for her daughters and grandkids, and her family was the center of her world. She found great happiness in the love they shared, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Her grandkids will always remember her letters written backwards in cursive, a small and special detail that will remain a cherished part of their memories. The love she gave her family was deep, and it reflected the beautiful way she lived her life each day.
Her faith was incredibly strong and important to her, and it guided her through life with grace and purpose. She carried herself with quiet dignity and a spirit of compassion that left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Wayne; daughter, Alicia (Andy) Brinkmoeller; grandchildren, Matthew and Abigail Arttus and Alexis and Andrew Brinkmoeller; son-in-law, Darren Arttus; sisters-in-law, Sharon Robinson, Laura (David) Witt, Amanda (David) Johnson, Brenda (Richard) Worthington; and brother-in-law, Warren Gillett. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her parents-in-law, Warren and Ruth (Jensen) Gillett; her daughter, Rebecca L. (Gillette) Arttus; her brothers, Burdette Robinson Sr. and Larry Robinson; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Dennis (Joyce) Gillette, Nancy (Ronald) Schindel and Peggy Gillett; niece, Michelle (Gillette) Edgerton; and great nephew, Kyle Burkhalter.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, 10:30 a.m. at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Warrens. Pastor David Weber will officiate. Burial will follow in the La Grange Cemetery. Family and friends are invited for visitation on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Additional visitation will be held on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Tomah Boys & Girls Club or St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Warrens. The Torkelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Torkelson Funeral Home
