Valentins Gailans

Passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 11 at the age of 87. Preceded in death by parents Viktors Gailans, Ella Gailans, and Sister Dzintara Petersone. Survived by wife Marija, son Dr. Ivars Gailans Ellen, grandsons Stefans and Peteris.

He was born in Latvia and attended High School in Riga, then the University of Latvia where he studied Veterinary Medicine. The Soviet Occupation in 1940 interrupted his studies and he regretted not ever being able to resume them. It was during this time that he met and married Marija. As the Soviets advanced, they fled to Germany and after living for four years in several refugee camps, were able to immigrate to the United States. The family settled down in Milwaukee after brief stays in Iowa and South Dakota. Here, he was the Plant Manager for Peter?s Engineering until retirement in 1984. He was an avid fisherman and made an annual trip to Hayward for 40 years. Much of his life was dedicated to participation in the local Latvian community, especially in the Latvian church where he served as president for many years. He was a member of Frat! Lettonia.

Visitation, Saturday, March 17, 2007 at MILWAUKEE LATVIAN EV. LUTHERAN HOLY TRINITY CHURCH, 1835 N.75 St. from 10-11AM with Funeral Service at 11AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Latvian Church appreciated.

HERITAGE FUNERAL HOME
Tebo-Peppey-Klemmer & Scheuerell
Richard B. Lee Associate
414-321-7440