Gladys McKinley
her side.
Gladys’ life journey began in 1932 in Arkdale, WI, where she was the 7th of 11 children born to Hans and Hilda Pedersen. She grew up on the family farm, along with brothers Norman, Roy,
and Alden, and sisters Caroline Henriksen, Viola York, Virginia Chaffee, Esther Stevens, Myrtle Lecy, Verna Williams, and Florence Koehler. Gladys attended Adams-Friendship High School, where, as a member of the Class of 1950, she was an excellent student. Following graduation, she moved to Chicago and worked in the office of a large insurance company. She married Clinton (Bud) McKinley at Trinity Lutheran Church in Arkdale in 1952. They moved to Friendship, which was to be her beloved home for 68 years. Gladys and Bud were wonderful parents to a family of two children, Pam and Tom. Throughout her life, Gladys was devoted to her large family and many friends. She hosted memorable card parties and holiday meals over the years and was known as someone to be counted on in any time of need. Golfing, bowling, and snowmobiling were hobbies that she especially enjoyed. She was a longtime member of the VFW Auxiliary, Moundview Golf Club, Tucson Estates Ladies Golf League, and Tucson Estates Red Hat Society. Gladys’ primary career was as a bookkeeper, first at Roberts Motors, and, later at Shari Sales, where she eventually became a co-owner. In retirement, she enjoyed working part-time at the Times Reporter and Carole’s Fashion Delights. Gladys and Bud spent many happy winters at a desert home in Tucson, AZ. In 2020, Gladys made a new home at The Classic at Hillcrest Greens in Altoona, WI, where she resided until her passing.
Gladys was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, eight siblings, all of her brothers-in-law and sisters-in law, special nephews, and many cherished friends. Left to mourn her passing
are her children: Pam (Matt) Brunner, and Tom (Sue), her grandchildren: Tony, and Sam (Andra) Brunner, Bridget (Marshall) and Kelly McKinley, sister Myrtle Lecy, and brother Alden Pedersen. She will also be greatly missed by several generations of nieces and nephews, as well as many friends and caregivers.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, July 29, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Arkdale, WI. Pastor Terri Skildum will officiate. Visitation will be at the church from 12:00 Noon – 1:00 p.m. The family requests that memorials be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church or to the Adams-Friendship Area Educational Foundation.
Our deepest condolences Pam,Tom and family.
Our families go way back and I remember card playing nights as a small child. I pass along mom’s condolences she has fond memories of your mom.
Sincere condolences to Pam and Tom, your spouses and families, at this difficult time. We remember all the good times and she deserves now to rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pam and family….so sorry for your loss.
Those whom we remember with smiles lived very special lives. It’s impossible not to smile when remembering Aunt Gladys. She brightened up the room and made everybody around her happy. I miss her already.
Thoughts and prayers to family and friends a beautiful lady inside and out. Heaven welcomed another angel.
Our sincere sympathy to the family of Gladys. Rubber and Teresa Marti
Thinking of you. The best neighbor we ever had. We still miss having you across the street. Take care.
Tom and Pam, it is my pray that you remember the joy that was your Mom. A life here well lived, and now in the presence of our Lord she finds peace, rest, and may God reveals to her all the treasures of heaven. For you and the family, know the Comforter remains ever near to you all. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen
Pam and Tom, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Gladys was such a sweet women and so kind. I’m sure she is with our Lord in Heaven.
Pam and Tom, Having parents leaving our home here on earth and going on ahead of us is very difficult but, we will see them again if we believe in Jesus promise! The pain for now though is very real and I am deeply sorry for your sorrow and the loss of your beautiful Mom and my Aunt. She will be missed!
Pam, Tom & Families, this is so heart breaking, to loose an aunt. Aunt Gladys, was a very special lady, class & alot of giggles. RIP Love & hugs Evie
Pam, Tom & Families, this is so heart breaking, to loose an aunt. Aunt Gladys, was a very special lady, clas & alot of giggles. RIP Love & hugs Evie
So sorry for the loss of this wonderful lady. Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Our deep condolences to the family.
Aunt Gladys will be missed dearly. Say hi to my Mom and Dad for me. Miss them so much. Rest in peace. Love you ❤️
My deepest sympathies to the family !! Gladys was a sweet lady !!!! It was a pleasure to have met her !!!!
awe, such a nice lady always. so full of kindness & a smile. hugs 🙏 for family, friends & all who loved and called her friend.
Aunt Gladys you are missed. Fabulous lady
Sympathy to Pam & Tom and family
Hold your memories close❤️
My wonderful Aunt Gladys will be so fondly remembered. Our sympathy to you all.
We are certainly thinking of you, our thoughts and prayers are with you. May your mother rest in peace. And may the Lord bring comfort and healing during this difficult time.