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Bradley Gillam Obituary

Bradley Michael Gillam

Bradley Michael Gillam, 66, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, April 19, 2025, due to complications from Multiple Sclerosis. He was born December 4, 1958, in Columbus. Though most recently residing in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, Brad was a longtime Belleville/New Glarus resident. Brad is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 39 years, Sheila; his daughters, Carly (Thomas) Stuessy, who are expecting Brad's first grandchild in July, and Greer (Charles O'Connor) Gillam; his mother, Lois Smith; his brother, Todd (Linda) Gillam, brother-in-law, Eric (Stacie) Westerhausen, sisters-in-law, Andrea Russell, CeCe Zimmerman, Sydney Campbell, and Libby (Kevin) MacDonald; and a large, loving extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Nicholas Gillam Jr.; stepfather, Jerry Smith; in-laws, Joan and Jerry Westerhausen; sister-in-law, Lise "Tutti" Westerhausen; and niece, Shauna Ward.

Brad enjoyed a long and fulfilling career at Lands' End, where he served as Vice President of Quality and Sourcing before retiring in 2004. Even decades after his time there, Brad maintained close friendships with former colleagues-a testament to his magnetic personality and the lasting impression he made wherever he went. Brad had many interests, including a lifelong love for aviation, and earned his private pilot's license as a young man. He was endlessly fascinated by weather and loved tracking storms from his favorite perch-his cherished home on the hill in New Glarus. He was known to put on a massive fireworks display every 4th of July at this same spot for all in the neighborhood to enjoy.

A passionate golfer, Brad was the founding member of the "Gilly Golf Group" and relished his Saturday tee times at Pleasant View Golf Course. His quick wit, dry sense of humor, and kind, generous spirit made him instantly beloved by all who knew him.

Brad lived with an insidious Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis for nearly 30 years. Though it eventually took his ability to walk 18 holes at the golf course or bike 30 miles on a sunny afternoon, it never touched his upbeat personality, sharp sense of humor, or steady positivity. He faced his illness with grace, courage, and a quiet strength that inspired those around him. Above all, Brad was meant to be a dad. He poured his heart into making life magical for his daughters and his legacy of love, laughter, and thoughtfulness will live on in them.

Private funeral service will take place with the assistance of Becker Beal Funeral Home, 109 Greenway Cross, Belleville, WI.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to National MS Society, Wisconsin Chapter, in Brad's memory.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Courier on Apr. 23, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Bradley Gillam

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Greer Gillam

June 14, 2025

I miss you so much, dad. More than words could ever describe. I turned 29 four days ago.
I love you, I love you, I love you.
Happy (almost) Father´s Day.

Kyle Dedrick

April 29, 2025

Really sad to hear this. Always enjoyed having him in our group during the Lands´ End golf outings.

Michael J Smith

April 27, 2025

So sad to hear this. Condolences to the family.

Grant Friedrich

April 27, 2025

Sorry for your loss. Good memories of seeing Brad at the Gillam family home in Findlay on my frequent visits across the backyard.

Brynn Lacey

April 25, 2025

I was blessed to first know Brad from school in Findlay Ohio. He is so well loved by all! Sending his beautiful wife and family heartfelt comfort and peace! We are all better people for knowing Brad.

Karin Johnson

April 24, 2025

I am so sad to hear of the passing of Brad and can´t imagine the broken hearts of the loved ones he leaves behind. Far too many years have gone by since I have seen Brad. I never knew him to be anything but kind, funny and full of life. When I was a teenager he took me for a flight! He had great fun tipping, dipping and tilting the plane and even getting to point where he stalled the engine in mid air, trying to see how terrified I could get!!! I remember it dropping (and I was absolutely terrified!!) and he suddenly starts it back up. Thankfully I didn´t get sick on plane, but when we got home Lois took one look at my ghostly white face and said, "Brad! What did you do?" I think she knew exactly what kind of a ride he had most likely taken me on!! There were also the years where at Christmas time Brad would bless us with wonderful discounts to Lands End! We were on a very limited budget and to be able to afford quality clothing (Lands End was amazing in those days!!) like that was something special! Both of those remembrances show his humor and kindness! To Sheila, Carly and Greer, Lois and Tod, I send my deep sympathy and prayers for peace and comfort in your sorrow. With Love, Karin

Norma Smith

April 23, 2025

My deepest sympathy to Sheila, Lois and the entire GIllam family. I only met Brad and Tod a few times at family gatherings as we all lived in other states, but I remember how charming and handsome Lois's boys were. May the love of family, friends and coworkers bring comfort. My prayers for each of you.

Lisa Zoet

April 23, 2025

I worked with Brad at Lands´ End in the 1990´s. What a brilliant guy, with an infectious humor. The Zoet family send their condolences on Brad´s passing to his family. What a great, great guy! I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Much love to you all as your journey through grief. ~ Lisa Zoet

Beth Foreman-Gault

April 23, 2025

Sending my sympathies to Todd and Brad´s families.

Dorothy Gullickson(Dot)

April 23, 2025

My sympathy to the entire family, worked with Brad and he joined us for lunches with a few of us at Village Green on occasion.

Franz Weiglein

April 22, 2025

To Sheila, Carly, Greer and extended family I am deeply saddened by this news and have all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Brad was more than a friend, he was like a brother to me. While working at Lands´ End we had lunch together nearly everyday for 10 years. I was likely "Gilly Golf" member #6 or #7 and had a full time slot starting in 1992, what great times. We met every Saturday morning at sunrise at the Pleasant View Golf course for the all to short Wisconsin golf season. We´d add two cans of beer to our bags at the start of each round for what Brad called Saturday morning "Beerios".
Brad and I shared so much laughter at work and on the course, I will forever cherish those memories. Rest in peace my brother.

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Karen Beerkircher

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Funeral services provided by:

Becker-Beal Funeral Home

109 Greenway Cross PO Box 44, Belleville, WI 53508

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