Daniel Walter Gilles, age 74, passed away Sunday, March 12th 2023, at his home in Plum City, surrounded by his family.

Dan was born on July 21, 1948, to Lyle and Betty Gilles. Dan lived his entire life in Plum City. He graduated from Plum City High School in 1966, and attended CVTC in Eau Claire before going to work for his father at Plum City Hardware. As a Master Plumber, Dan worked for 50 years serving the community and surrounding area, taking care of countless customers. In 1986, Dan purchased the store from Lyle, running it until 2021, when the business was sold. Dan was a member of the Plum City Lions Club, and served on the Town of Union Fire Department. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, watching the Blues, Brewers, Badgers and Packers. Known by many as Digger, he enjoyed spending time with his many friends, and always loved the time he spent with his grandchildren. Despite a life-long dislike of dogs, Dan enjoyed the grand-dog Gordon (aka Muttley J. Muttley/Meathead).

Dan is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kay (Fetzer). Sons; Mark (Tracy) of Madison, WI, Anthony (Sue) of New Prague, MN and Joel of Maiden Rock. Grandchildren; Alexander, Sarah, Andrew (Michaela), Megan, Jack, Sam, and Katherine. Sisters; Linda (Larry) Chilson, of Plum City, Kay (Dan) Erickson, of Prescott, Ann (Jeff) Bechel, of Plum City, Amy (Dave) Comee, of Savage, MN. Brother Lee of Barron, WI. Sister-in-law Peggy, of Plum City. Renee of Prescott. Sister-in-law Betsy Fetzer of Elmwood, brother-in-law Bill (Minda), of Hudson. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. Preceded in death by his parents Lyle and Betty, brother Patrick, infant sister Susan, sister-in-law Joan Fox, brother-in-law Bob Fetzer.

A celebration of life will be held from 12:00PM Noon-3:00PM Sunday, March 26, 2023 at Molly’s on Main in Plum City.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Plum City American Legion Post #365.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Jim and Nancy Helmueller March 25, 2023, at 4:46pm

   Dear Kay and family, Our sincere sympathy on the loss of Dan. Hoping happy memories sustain you during this difficult time.

2. Lori Schneider March 25, 2023, at 2:00pm

   My deepest sympathies to the Gilles family. Your family is my thoughts & prayers.

3. Carl Saueressig March 23, 2023, at 1:09pm

   Sincerest heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

4. Michael C. Gilles March 20, 2023, at 2:16pm

   Kay and Family I’m so sorry for your loss.

5. Jim Krause March 18, 2023, at 9:09pm

   I am so sorry to hear about Dan. He will be missed. I went to school at St. John's with Dan and Kay through the 5th grade. The family has my prayers and sympathy.

6. Scott Monson March 17, 2023, at 11:50am

   My sincere condolences to the family. I will miss chatting with Digger.

7. Kay Longsdort March 16, 2023, at 3:48pm

   To Dan's family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Kay L

8. Crystal Dow March 16, 2023, at 3:35pm

   So sorry to hear of Digger's passing....very nice man and worked hard!

9. Marcia and Jim Gowling March 15, 2023, at 7:35pm

   We are so sorry for your loss!

10. Kristine Polzer March 15, 2023, at 7:18pm

    Kay and family, Dave and I are sending our deep sympathy to all of you. We will sure miss visiting with Dan.

11. Kathy & Bob Geraets March 15, 2023, at 4:35pm

    Condolences to the families on the loss of Dan

12. Margaret Steller March 15, 2023, at 3:53pm

    My thoughts and prayers are with Kay, the boys and their families at this sad time. May you always remember the good times. Take care and GOD BLESS.

13. Joanne Hovey March 15, 2023, at 1:46pm

    Sympathy to family and friends. So sorry for your loss.

14. David Klein@lori klein March 15, 2023, at 1:30pm

    Growing up with dan and kay from st.john JOHNNIES through being a blue devil,many great memories were made. our sincere sympathy we are sending you and your family.

15. Maralyn & LaVere Anderson March 15, 2023, at 6:57am

    Our sympathy to Dan's family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.

16. Joe and Jan Drier March 14, 2023, at 8:35pm

    Sending Our Deepest Sympathy and Thinking of you all during this time!!

17. JoAnn McDonnell Flatjord March 14, 2023, at 6:03pm

    RIP Dan thoughts and prayers go out to all your families and loved ones m.

18. Julie Conyers March 14, 2023, at 6:03pm

    So sorry for your loss, sending sympathy to all the Gilles family.

19. Donna Hoyt March 14, 2023, at 5:55pm

    So sorry for your loss.

20. Julie MoritZ March 14, 2023, at 5:25pm

    Deepest sympathy to Dan’s family.

21. Nancy (Kannel)Bowe March 14, 2023, at 5:17pm

    I'm so sorry for your loss Dan was always so nice. Cherish his memory, you have our deepest sympathy. God bless you all.

22. Scott Watkins March 14, 2023, at 4:52pm

    My deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers ????

23. Suzi Crownhart March 14, 2023, at 3:35pm

    My sympathy to Dan’s Family - I am so sorry for your loss.

24. Nick and Sue Sperger March 14, 2023, at 3:22pm

    We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

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