Francis A. Gilson

Francis A. Gilson, of Antigo, died on September 3, 2025 at Evergreen Terrace Assisted Living. He was 89 years old. He was born on October 26, 1935 in Rosiere, a son of Wallace and Blanche (Charles) Gilson. On April 30, 1960, Francis married Donna Matzke at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church in Maplewood.
Francis graduated from Casco High School in 1953. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Education from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in 1957 and received a Master of Science degree in Horticulture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1970.
He proudly served in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960.
In 1962, Francis moved to Antigo and began his 30-year career with the University Extension and Langlade County. He was appointed County Agriculture Research Agent, fair secretary in 1964, and was instrumental in developing the Langlade County Agriculture Research Station in 1975. Mr. Gilson was promoted to Professor in the UW Extension Agriculture/Ag Business Department in 1989 and in 1998 was inducted in the WI Potato and Vegetable Growers Hall of Fame.
Francis was a member of St. John Catholic Church, the church choir, and served as a lector. He was also a member of the Antigo Kiwanis Club, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 662, the Monsignor Conrad Saile Council 1002 Knights of Columbus and was an FFA Alumni.
He enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, hunting, softball, golf, singing and dancing. His favorite pastime was cheering on the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers.
Survivors include two sons, Tom Gilson of Minneapolis, MN, and David (Katie) Gilson of Pewaukee; two daughters, Nancy Gilson of Antigo, and Sue (Mike) Felder of Weston; a son-in-law, Dan Shannon of White Lake; six grandchildren, Eryn and Bret (Erin) Shannon, Annabel and Ainsleigh Gilson, and Cade and Cole Felder; two great-grandchildren, Callan and Mae Shannon; a sister, Clare Graf of Union Grove; two sisters-in-law, Karen (Gary) Alexander of Suamico, and Lynn Gilson of Green Bay; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two daughters, Beth Shannon, and infant, Theresa Gilson; father and mother-in-law, Eric and Marie Matzke; a brother, James Gilson; and a brother-in-law, Rollie Graf.
A private funeral Mass will be held at St John Catholic Church. Entombment will take place at Queen of Peace Cemetery.
The family would like to thank Sarah, Gary and the wonderful team at Evergreen Terrace, and Aspirus LeRoyer Hospice for their care and support.
Bradley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences at www.bradleyfh.com. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Francis, please visit our Tree Store.