Virgil Gentz
April 2, 1943 -
September 12, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Virgil Gentz, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend, who left us on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the age of 82. Virgil was born on April 2, 1943, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to Kenneth and Marie (Person) Gentz. He graduated from Central High School and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Wisconsin–Parkside.
On October 23, 1965, Virgil married Gail Wisnefski, beginning a love story that lasted nearly six decades. Their unwavering devotion and partnership built the foundation of a beautiful life together as they raised three daughters and welcomed five grandchildren into their world.
For 32 years, Virgil dedicated his career to teaching at Bristol Grade School, where he was affectionately known as Mr. Gentz. He was more than a teacher — he was a mentor, role model, and friend to countless students, remembered for his humor, wisdom, and the life lessons that stayed with them long after they left his classroom.
Beyond the classroom, Virgil was a devoted public servant and community leader, serving as Town Chairman of Paris, Wisconsin, where his steady leadership, fairness, and kindness earned him the respect of his neighbors and friends.
Virgil’s life was filled with passions that reflected his love for family and the outdoors. He treasured time spent “Up North” at his cabin on Pine Lake, watching his children and grandchildren play sports, playing cards, golfing, splitting wood, and sharing stories — often punctuated with one of his famous “Virgil-isms.” His warmth, humor, and ability to connect with anyone left an impression on all who knew him.
Virgil is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Gail Gentz; his daughters, Theresa Gentz, Kelly (Gregory) Holley, and Kimberly (Mike) Schmidt; and his cherished grandchildren, Gregory Holley III, Drue Holley, Jalen Holley, Jaxon Holley, and Olivia Schmidt. He is further survived by his brother, Noel (Barbara) Gentz, many nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his granddaughter, Lucinda Schmidt; and his siblings, Marie Elena Gentz, Marlene Heidi, Keith Gentz, Wayne Gentz, and Lorna Newman.
In this time of reflection, we celebrate Virgil’s extraordinary life — one marked by service, laughter, and love — and give thanks for the countless ways he enriched our lives. His legacy lives on in his family, students, community, and in all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Interment will follow in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church would be deeply appreciated.
Visitation
Funeral Service
Posted by:
Kerry ConnellyPosted on:
September 18, 2025Our condolences to Gail and the entire Gentz family. Virgil was a very good person. He will be missed, but not forgotten. Kerry and Geri Connelly
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Jody LarabeePosted on:
September 18, 2025My deepest condolences to Mr. Gentz’s family and loved ones. Mr. Gentz was more than a teacher—he was a joyful presence and a lasting influence. I was lucky to have him in grade school, where he made learning genuinely fun. Even when he had to give me the occasional detention for talking too much, he did it with a twinkle in his eye. He believed in me—referring me for babysitting jobs and always cheering me on. Our paths crossed many times after those school years - at church, sports and most recently, it was a true gift to see him at the Bristol Grade School teacher reunion 2021, where he was still lighting up the space with his infectious smile and warmth. Mr. Gentz had that rare ability to make everyone feel seen, valued, and encouraged. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, learning, and kindness that will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything, Mr. Gentz. You were one of the greats. With gratitude and sympathy, Jody Larabee
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Maranda IorioPosted on:
September 17, 2025You will be missed by so many. Because of you I found science so fun that went to college and got a degree in Medical Science! You really did change lives, mine included. Your legacy will live on in anyone that was privileged to have known you. May your family find peace in this time of sorrow. Rest easy Mr.Gentz.
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Todd A MuellerPosted on:
September 17, 2025My condolences to Gail and the family I have know Virgil and Gail and the Gail’s for many years . He was a great man and he will be remembered and never forgotten . RIP Virgil 🙏🙏
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Lee and Johanna RobinsonPosted on:
September 17, 2025You always brought light to a room. Your unique spirit will be missed Virgil.
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Shirley Zirbel BodmanPosted on:
September 17, 2025Sympathy and prayers Gail & family
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Brian and Dawn MuhlenbeckPosted on:
September 17, 2025We are so sorry to hear this news...we will sure miss our golf cart ride down to your house for cocktails.. you will be missed Virgil..
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Rebecca MercedesPosted on:
September 16, 2025Mr. Gentz was an inspirational teacher who always showed up for his students! He was a great storyteller who was able to hook students in to learn more! Thanks for motivating me to become an educator and taking me to an actual trial in 8th grade!
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John CallahanPosted on:
September 16, 2025REST IN PEACE
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Dennis & Lorraine SheehanPosted on:
September 16, 2025Virg was quite a guy. We will miss him a lot, especially at the Christmas dinner.
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Susan (Walsh)Posted on:
September 16, 2025I will NEVER forget the lesson Mr. Gentz taught us about going along with the crowd or sticking to what you can see, hear, taste, or smell. He brought in jars of liquid and told us it was Skunk spray. Almost everyone recoiled at the perceived pungent aroma. It was water. The lesson was clear, trust your own senses. I have thanked him for that lesson all my life. Bristol class of 1976. I am praying for all those who are missing him. Peace be with you.
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Roger & Arlene RunkelPosted on:
September 16, 2025Prayers and hugs to help fill the hole in your hearts....We still laugh at Virgil's endless humor on our 1960 Zion Band road trip to march in the Pike's Peak or Bust Rodeo in Colorado Springs...
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Ann NiccolaiPosted on:
September 16, 2025Gail & family: So very sorry to hear of Virgil's passing. Virgil always had a genuine & friendly smile on his face. Sending warm & sincere condolences to you. May he rest in peace. Ann Niccolai
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Geri Holland (Victor)Posted on:
September 16, 2025With caring thoughts and prayers ❤️
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Lisa Mc Isaac DrennanPosted on:
September 16, 2025My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family 🙏🙏❤️. Mr. Gentz was one of my favorite teachers and family friend. I live in New York and I will not be able to make the services. I will be thinking about all of you.
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Charlene MyersPosted on:
September 16, 2025Dear Gail and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers of comfort and peace to you. Love and Hugs, Charlene
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Jean n Gary GitzlaffPosted on:
September 16, 2025Gail n family so sorry to hear of Virgil's passing he was a great guy alot of fun.
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Richard "BO" BosankoPosted on:
September 16, 2025To Gail and Family, sincere sympathy to all of you on the loss of your beloved Virgil. We wish you many fond memories of him and the good times you all shared together as a family. Part of Virgil's legacy will be the positive impact he had on thousands of kids during his teaching career. Many of us had a "Mr.Gentz" type mentor early in our childhood, whose values taught and encouraging words had a positive impact on us for the rest of our lives. God Bless "Mr. Gentz". St. Peter is learning a few "Virgilisms" right now! Bo & Maggie
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Evelyn FullerPosted on:
September 16, 2025Oh Gosh, Virgil. You can never be forgotten. Imagine my surprise to see this message. I am grateful for you and your family. My life in Wisconsin was enriched for having known you. Your warmth, your welcome, I appreciate forever. Rest well. Much Love, Evelyn
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John and Diane MyersPosted on:
September 16, 2025Our sympathy to the family.
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Anita hartshornPosted on:
September 16, 2025My brothers, Scott,& Todd Hartshorn, and myself all had the privilege of having Mr. Getz as our science teacher! What a wonderful humorous gift of a man that was to the many students that he gave lessons to not only in science, but in life! Sending you my family‘s sincere condolences. RIP MR. GANTZ AND THANK YOU FOR BEING SUCH A FORMATIVE PART OF OUR YOUNG LIVES❤️
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Larry and Barbara HudsonPosted on:
September 16, 2025Kelly you and family have or deepest sympathy and love.
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Geraldine Howe (Hebert)Posted on:
September 15, 2025I fondly remember having your Dad as a wonderful teacher at Bristol Consolidated School in the 80’s. My sincere condolences for the loss of your dear Father.
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Art n Karen EllisPosted on:
September 15, 2025We are so sorry for your loss prayers lifted he was a wonderful man
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Melinda Keller MattsonPosted on:
September 15, 2025What a lovely fun person and Educator. I loved science class for more than one reason…. maybe not dissecting a frog …. but he made everything fun . And the humor between him and Mr. Steiber made middle school so memorable to me. My sincere condolences from our family to yours.
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Terri Jacobsen IPosted on:
September 15, 2025I am 71 years old and still remember him fondly. Condolences to his whole family.
