Gillis Woodrow Botten

Gillis Woodrow Botten, 75, longtime Barnes, WI resident, passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, with his loving family by his side. He was born to Peter and Marjorie (Johnson) Botten on July 11, 1950, in Superior, WI.

He graduated from Superior Senior High School, class of 1968, and went on to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a graduate degree in Business from the University of Wisconsin–Superior. His career spanned positions with the Chicago Northwestern Railroad, the Douglas County Highway Department, and Botten Bros. Trucking. He was a hardworking man who loved driving truck for his parents and operating heavy machinery for the highway department.

On October 27, 1973, he married Janet Amys. They celebrated 51 wonderful years together.

Gill could often be found participating in various softball leagues, and during the winter months, he enjoyed time on the snowmobile trails. He was an avid sports fan who loved cheering for his favorite Wisconsin teams—the Badgers, Green Bay Packers, and Brewers. Local games, especially those featuring his children or grandchildren, brought him great joy. His favorite place to be was on Lake Ellison with family and friends, floating along on his pontoon boat. He was affectionately known as the “Mayor of Ellison Lake” because of his friendly demeanor and his willingness to help anyone in need.

Gill is survived by his wife, Janet (Amys) Botten; children, Angel (Seth) Johnson and Will (Carrie) Botten; grandchildren, Aaron Johnson, Brady Botten, Brynn Johnson, Madylin Botten, and Elina Botten; sisters, Kathy Botten, Sandy (Jim) Jonasen, and Suzie (Tim) Correll; brother, Don (Linda) Botten; sisters-in-law, Delores (Bruce) Graden, Adele Faris, and Annette Minter; and brothers-in-law, Greg (Susie) Amys, Mark (Michelle) Amys, Gary (Sherry) Amys, Kevin (Jennifer) Amys, and Dean (Jan) Amys.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Marge Botten, and brothers-in-law, John Faris and Ed Minter.

A Celebration of Life for Gillis will be held from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Belgian Club, 3931 E. 2nd Street in Superior.

The Lenroot–Maetzold Funeral Home, 1209 E. 5th Street, is assisting the family with arrangements. To leave a condolence or sign the guestbook, please visit www.lenroot-maetzold.com.