Gloria A. Bondioli, age 80, passed away on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, while being hospitalized at U.W.-Madison Hospital, with her loving family by her side. Gloria was born on January 31, 1943, in Merrill, and was the daughter to the late Arnt and Gudrun (Johnson) Nelson.  She attended and graduated from Merrill High School with the Class of 1961.  On March 3, 1962, Gloria married her best friend and high school sweetheart, Eugene Bondioli, at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill.  He survives.  Eugene and Gloria have spent many wonderful years traveling and appreciating each other. In 2005, after 23 years, Gloria retired from working in the administration office for the Merrill Area Public Schools.  She had worked for many years as a secretary at the Jefferson Elementary School in Merrill.  Gloria loved singing and would bless so many others with her gift of music.  She sang with the Merrill Chapter of Sweet Adeline Chorus & Quartet and Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church Choir.  Gloria was also a very talented seamstress and enjoyed crocheting, knitting and embroidery work.  She had the most infectious laugh and her smile could brighten a room.  Gloria enjoyed spending time with her family, they were first and foremost in her life.  She would look forward to going to the casino with Eugene, where she would enjoy the experience. Gloria was the best wife, feisty and fun-loving.  She had a huge heart and was very thoughtful and generous.  She will be sadly missed but will remain in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

Gloria is survived by her soul mate: Eugene Bondioli, she was blessed with 3 wonderful and caring daughters: Lori (Joe) Duginski, Amy (John) Marthaler and Beth (Leslie) Stevenson, 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, 2 brothers-in-law, 4 sisters-in-law and many nieces, nephews and friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, brother, mother and father-in-law, and 2 brothers-in-law.

The Memorial Service for Gloria will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at 12pm at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill.  Pastor Missy Miller will officiate.  Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 10am until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, Gloria and her family pray, if you are able, that you will become an organ donor and give the gift of life.  Monetary donations may be sent to U.W. Madison Organ Donor Organization or the Children’s Miracle Network. Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

“Love means never having to say you’re sorry”   ~ Gloria A. Bondioli