Gladys Cole 12/09/2025

Gladys died peacefully with her family by her side the day after her 96th birthday, at the Deerfield assisted living community in New Richmond WI.

Gladys Irene Wangen was born on December 8, 1929, on the family homestead near Brockway, Montana to parents Theodore and Mary Wangen. She was the youngest of three children after her brother, Joe and sister, Anna.

Upon graduating high school, she attended college at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana, earning a degree in teaching.

After teaching high school for several years, she met Glen Cole who was a graduate student at MSU. They were married in 1955 in Brockway, Montana. Glen began work as a research biologist and for the next seven years they lived in Lewistown and then Helena, Montana where they adopted their daughter Patty.

In 1962 the family moved to Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, where their daughter Brenda was born. Five years later they moved to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming where they lived for 9 years. With her family she enjoyed downhill skiing, biking, hiking, fly fishing, picnics, and scenic drives in Yellowstone. She was an integral part of the community, participating in many activities including Girl Scout leader, school board and bridge club.

In 1976 the family moved to Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota where Glen continued his career as a biologist until his retirement. Gladys was active in the community and also enjoyed sewing, quilting, knitting, and needlepoint during the long winter months. She was an avid reader and worked as a manager and editor for a park service publication.

In retirement Glen and Gladys spent many winters in southern Texas. After Glen died in 2004, Gladys moved to New Richmond, Wisconsin to be near her children and four grandchildren. She volunteered her time at the elementary schools, the food shelf, and The Methodist church. She enjoyed playing bridge, book club, and was a member of the Centre.

Gladys is survived by her daughter, Patty (Pete) Stenske; her grandchildren, Nick (Shannon) Stenske, Caela Stenske, Jesse Stenske and Martin Stenske; one nephew and three nieces. She is preceded in death by her husband, Glen; her parents; her siblings; and her daughter, Brenda Cole of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

A celebration of Life for Gladys has been planned for Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 1:00-4:00PM at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave) New Richmond, Wisconsin. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the Deerfield in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.