Gail B. Surrem

Gail B. Surrem, age 82, of Richland Center, passed away peacefully February 15, 2026, after a short, courageous battle with Hodgkin Lymphoma. Gail was born on "a cold winter night", January 3, 1944, in Basswood on the family farm to Vanda "Tonnie" Minnie Surrem (Belscamper) and Boyd Laroy Surrem and was the only surviving child from that union. When Gail was in second grade, the family moved to Eagle Corners, and Boyd became the town patrolman for Eagle Township. Growing up in this close-knit community deepened Gail's appreciation for hard work, service, and the importance of family.

In 1966, Gail married Linda L. Foley, shortly after graduating from Platteville University. He served in Vietnam from 1968-1969. Following his service in the Vietnam War, Gail returned home to begin a new chapter of his life. In 1972, he moved his young family to the Richland Center area and purchased 12 acres and a condemned house. The property grew to 26 acres and a solid family home.

Gail was known for his ability to make friends (pretty much anyone he had a conversation with), his readiness to lend a hand, his deep belief in others, and his unwavering commitment to the community. Gail also had a real passion for softball and played on several teams before he stated he was too old to run around the bases.

Gail worked at the Richland County Bank for over 50 years by the time he retired in 2020. He started as a teller and was a vice president and loan officer when he retired. Many a person or business sat with Dad and knew him to be the guy that would make it happen if he could and often got a healthy dose of belief and/or support with any loan he provided.

Deeply committed to the Richland community, Gail volunteered his time, energy, and money to many various causes and organizations. He volunteered at local organizations like Bright Start, participated in civic initiatives, and was always willing to lend a helping hand to neighbors in need. Gail served on both the Richland County and township boards for years. Gail was also an active and proud member of the Lions, contributing to their mission of service and compassion. He proudly belonged to the American legion. In addition, Gail served as the executor of many wills throughout the community, ensuring that the wishes and legacies of local families were honored. He played important roles in the Jaycees, Knights of Columbus, Richland Housing Authority, and the Ackerman Trust; dedicating his talents to improving the lives of those around him. Gail also volunteered his time on the Pine Valley and Schmitt Woodland Hills committees, which he felt was his civic responsibility. Gail believed deeply in the importance of giving back and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him. His generosity, compassion, and commitment to service left an enduring impact on the community he loved.

He was especially devoted to supporting Vietnam Veterans, honoring their service and advocating for their well-being. The family credit the Forty & Eight - La Société des 40 Hommes et 8 Chevaux, Vietnam Vet Chapter with bringing back the man before the war and are forever grateful for giving us many good years with him.

Through these efforts and so many others, Gail made a tangible difference in the lives of many. His legacy will continue through the countless people he supported and the positive change he inspired. In his own words, his three rules were: 1) Be Honest 2) Be Kind 3) Never think you are better than anyone else.

Gail is survived by his wife, Linda Surrem; their three daughters: Rebecca Farrell, Amanda Surrem, and Barbara Surrem; four grandchildren: Emmaline Farrell (Jordan Breunig), Maighdlin Hauser (Eric), Cecilia Grefsheim (special friend Tyler Weaver), and Gabriel Grefsheim; and two great-grandchildren: Aidan Breunig and Rhea Hauser. In addition, he is survived by his two special brothers: Larry Sebranek and Pat Harwick. He leaves behind countless friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Lastly, he leaves behind his beloved dog, Rupert, and countless birds and "critters" he kept fed. He was preceded in death by his infant son, and his parents.

Gail will be remembered with love and fondness by family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched with his warmth and generosity. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his memory will be cherished always. We recommend hugs and/or kisses to your loved ones in his memory.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Pratt Memorial Chapel. Military rites follow the funeral and will be provided by the Local Military Memorial Honors Unit. A livestream of the service can be viewed at the Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service website. Burial will be held at the Basswood Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 1:00 PM until 7:00 PM and again on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the time of the service at 10:00 AM. The family suggests memorials in Gail's name be directed to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Scholarship Fund. If you have a favorite picture of Gail that you would like to share, we will make a scanner available for you to scan into the family album. The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.