Mrs. Gladys V. Wangen, 83, of Springfield, IL, formerly of Watertown, SD., passed away on Wednesday June 22, 2011 at 2:53 AM at her home in Bickford Senior Living Center, Springfield, IL.

She was born October 29, 1927 in Watertown, SD., the daughter of Martin and Alma (Abrahamson) Gustafson. Gladys married George Wangen, Jr. in Watertown SD on November 13, 1949 and he preceded her in death in 1970.

Mrs. Wangen was a member of Luther Memorial Evangelical Lutheran Church, and a former member of Faith Lutheran Church both of Springfield, IL. She had received a Bachelors Degree from UIS and was working toward her Masters Degree. Gladys retired as a Claims Representative for the Social Security Administration.

Surviving are daughters Kristine (Aylwin) Seen of Austin, TX., Jennifer (Ron) Loyd of Yakima, WA, sons Randall (Mary) Wangen of Grosse Ile, MI., Dr. Russell K. (Theresa) Wangen of Pawnee, IL., grandchildren Robert (Brooke) Wangen of Pawnee, IL., Raina (James) Kolba of Rochester, IL., Nicholas and Kristofer Loyd both of Yakima, WA., Emily Seen of Austin, TX., Julia & Catherine Wangen of Grosse Ile, MI., great grandchildren Savannah, Addison, Cole, Harrison and Luke, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family appreciates greatly the special blessing of treasured friends Ann and Sandi and niece Jorjean. The family also wishes to thank the staff at Bickford House for their loving care to Gladys over the last few years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

The family did receive visitors on Saturday June 25, 2011 at Luther Memorial Evangelical Lutheran Church (2600 S. 5th St. Springfield, IL., 62703) from 10 AM to 12 noon. Services began at 12 noon officiated by Pastor Ron Moorman and Pastor Bill Zanton with a meal following at the church. Memorials may still be made to Luther Memorial Evangelical Lutheran Church in memory of Mrs. Wangen.