Gladys T. Metzler

Gladys Theresa Metzler, 94, of Allouez, passed away on her birthday, September 29, 2026, after enjoying a birthday celebration surrounded by family. Gladys always trusted in God, and patiently rested until He called her peacefully to heaven with her rosary in her hand. Even in her final moments, as she did throughout her life, Gladys trusted her Heavenly Father to take care of her and her family, and she leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, and love. 

Gladys was born on September 29, 1932, in the Town of Eaton, Wisconsin to Frank Jr. and Veronica “Verna” Cherney (Pieschek). She grew up alongside her older brother, Orville, and younger brother, John (Barbara). Her early years were spent helping on the farm, shaping her into the nurturing and hardworking woman she would become and playing a significant role in how she later raised her children. 

In May 1959, Gladys married Martin Metzler Sr. Together, they had 10 children and shared many cherished memories throughout their 67 years together. They raised their kids near Green Isle Park in Allouez, and instilled in them a love of the outdoors, education, a commitment to family, as well as a deep faith in God. 

Gladys was devoted to her Catholic faith from an early age and was a longtime, active member of St. Matthew Catholic Parish in Allouez. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she took great pride in passing those values on to her children and grandchildren. Her love of God, family, and Catholic traditions remained steadfast throughout her life and shaped how she parented and treated others. 

Gladys was a woman of many talents who was always eager to learn more and share her creations with others. Gladys expressed her creativity by working with her hands and creating and sharing art. Her greatest joys included crocheting, painting, coloring, quilting, sewing, gardening, singing, playing piano, cooking, baking and doing word search puzzles. She was always eager to create something new and this played a significant role in keeping Gladys curious, youthful and generous. 

Gladys also had a great love for travel and adventure. She kept a suitcase packed so she would always be prepared to see and experience a new place. She never turned down the opportunity to go on a trip and create more memories. She visited nearly all 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska, and many countries, including Sweden, Denmark, Canada, Mexico and Australia. 

Gladys will be lovingly remembered for her unwavering faith, creative spirit, adventurous heart, calming nature, eternal optimism and most of all, her deep devotion to her family. Her presence brought love and warmth to generations and her memory will remain a treasured part of their lives. 

As Gladys begins her eternal journey, may she rest peacefully in the loving arms of Jesus, be reunited with her loved ones, and be forever surrounded by the love she gave so freely to others. Gladys is reunited in Heaven with her beloved daughter, Pamela Gallagher; her parents; her brother, Orville Cherney; her brother and sister-in-law, John and Barbara Cherney. 

Gladys is survived by her husband, Martin Metzler Sr., and 9 of their 10 children: Martin Metzler Jr. (Karen), Sam Metzler (Janice), Diane Stone (Gary), Cheryl Metzler Linzmeier (Ron), Bart Metzler (Laura), Tina Metzler, Jeff Metzler (Trina), Randy Metzler (Shannon), and Holly Metzler. She is also survived by her 26 grandchildren: Thomas (Abbie), Cavan (Inadia), Martin IV (Emilie), Miranda (Travis), Jessica, Madison, Mary, Annie, Joe, Annika, Jake, Brennan, Brady, Sarah, Molly (David), Cassie (Colton), Annabelle (Payton), Nick, Maggie, Delaney, Kinsey, Grady, Morgan, Anna, Indira, Everett; 7 great-grandchildren and 2 more great grand-children on the way. 

Family and friends may gather for Visitation on Monday, October 5, 2026 from 9:00 AM -12:00 PM at St. Matthew Catholic Parish (130 St Matthews St, Green Bay, WI 54301). A Mass of Christian Burial will follow immediately. Gladys will be laid to rest at Allouez Catholic Mausoleum at a later date.