Neil Edward Gilles

The family of Neil Gilles of Westfield, WI is saddened to announce his passing on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at the age of 81.  Neil was born on August 5, 1941 in Longwood, WI to Lloyd and Marion (Bateman) Gilles.  He grew up on a farm with his parents and three brothers in Cadott, WI.  At the age of 18, he moved to West Bend, WI to work at the Gehl factory, where he met the love of his life, Judy Koth, who would become his cherished wife for an astounding 62 years.

In 1963, Neil leased and operated a Clark gas station in Menomonee Falls.  In 1974, he decided to open Falls Archery Center.  He dedicated himself to its success until his well-deserved retirement.

Neil enjoyed spending countless hours in the outdoors with his family and friends and he loved to hunt and fish.  He arranged guided bear hunts in Canada throughout the 70’s and 80’s.  His favorite place to fish was Lake Michigan and he hosted many backyard fish boils over the years.  Neil purchased a piece of hunting land in Westfield and in the year 2000 he built his dream log home with Judy, where he could enjoy his retirement and hunt with his kids and grandkids.

Neil will be greatly missed by his wife, Judy; daughter, Tracy Paulsen; grandchildren who knew him as Bapa, Jesse and Taylor Paulsen and Joseph and Jeremy Gilles; brothers, William (Lynn) and Steven (Sharon) Gilles; sister-in-law, Judith Gilles; daughter-in-law, Tammy Zipperer; his dog, Rascal; as well as extended family and many friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Todd Gilles; brother, Rusty Gilles and his son in law, Brian Paulsen.

Please take a moment to view the online Tribute Wall.  Send your condolences or share a memory of Neil with his family & friends.