Elaine Ruth Gabriel

Elaine Ruth Gabriel, age 94, passed away peacefully at Aspirus Langlade Hospital on April 23, 2025.

Elaine was born on April 12, 1931 in Oconto, WI to the late Wilbur and Ruby (Schmolinske) Viestenz.

Elaine attended school in Lena, WI and went on to teacher’s college.

On March 8, 1952, she was united in marriage to Godfrey “Gabe” Gabriel.

The couple resided in Antigo, where Gabe taught in the Antigo School District and the couple owned and operated Grandview Orchard, which was a passion of theirs and a delight for the community.

Over the years, Elaine became aptly nicknamed “The Apple Lady” by many. Yet her growing family was also important to Mom especially during the less hectic off-seasons. She enjoyed the various roles as daughter, wife, mother, homemaker, mentor, adviser, and part-time referee if us kids got too rowdy.

Elaine was really into fruit and vegetable gardening, particularly proud of her berry raising prowess. Mom’s green thumbs often turning reddish after picking them all day.

She was an avid Green Bay Packers football and Wisconsin Badgers college basketball fan. Her favorite game show by far had to be “Jeopardy”, rarely ever missing and episode.

Elaine, along with Gabe, were well traveled, having taken numerous trips to Europe and elsewhere. Mom liked going a little off the beaten path while experiencing different cultures.

Mother took her strong Christian faith seriously. She was a longtime active churchgoer and Bible study member until health issues cropped up in recent months.

The name “Elaine” is from Greek origin meaning light. Mom, we are truly blessed to have been enlightened by you for these past 94 years. This so remarkable woman shall be deeply missed by all who knew her, may she forever rest in peace.

Survivors include sons: Roger (Pamela) of Mesa, AZ, David of Antigo, a daughter Laura (Gordon) Lenneman of River Falls, a son Barry (Jodele) of Hudson, WI, grandchildren: Aaron (Robbin) Kerner, Andew (Nicole) Kerner, Mitchell (Alsu) Lenneman, Neil (April Read) Lenneman, Ryan (Taylor) Gabriel, Sydney and Caden Gabriel, great grandchildren: Hallie, Abbigail, Finnley, Derek, Sophie, sisters: Alice (Steve) Sedgwick and Carol Bertrand.

Elaine was preceded in death by husband Godfrey, daughter Anne Kerner and two infant sons.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 29 at 11:00 AM at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Polar. Reverend Donald Engebretson will officiate. Visitation will be at the church from 10:00 AM until the service.

Strasser-Roller Funeral Home is assisting the family.