Gloria Donna Effertz

Gloria Donna Effertz, age 87 of Cumberland passed away on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at Woodstone Assisted Living in Rice Lake, surrounded by her family. She was born January 4, 1938 in Cumberland, WI to Theodore and Mildred (Rust) Hedke.
Gloria was married in Cumberland, WI on June 19, 1954 to John Effertz, who preceded her in death on April 3, 2019.
Many who knew Gloria commented that she was just "the sweetest lady around" - her kindness extended to all, including many of the kids' friends, who lovingly knew her as a second mom. She was a talented musician back in her day, and she and her siblings, Glenda and Glenn, would sing on the radio Saturday mornings known as the 3 G's. Later, they played in the Family Four band.
Gloria was also a woman of strong faith, which showed in her active involvement at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Cumberland.
She is survived by sons, Doug (Beth) Effertz, Bill (Shelley) Effertz, and Scott Effertz; daughter, Laurie (Jerry) Helmueller; 11 grandchildren Michelle Porter (Darwin), Amy Helmueller (Greg), Aaron Effertz (Meghan), Hannah Effertz (Walker), Ashley Melton (Amos), Eric Effertz, Jessica Bates (Shane), Sarah Effertz (Riley), Lacey Effertz (Devon), Jake Effertz (Jenny) and Becca Effertz (Mitch); 25 great-grandchildren; sisters, Glenda Zager and Geri (Mike) Peterson; and brothers, Glenn (Helmie) Hedke and Gene (Joan) Hedke.
Gloria was preceded in death by her husband, John; son, Jeff; and parents, Theodore and Mildred Hedke.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, December 18th, 2025 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, in Cumberland, WI with Rev. John Miels officiating.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 17th, 2025 from 4 - 7 PM at Skinner Funeral Home in Cumberland, and one hour prior to the service at church.
Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery, Cumberland.
Skinner Funeral Home of Cumberland is serving the family.