Gladys Jean (Riley) Hildebrandt, age 89, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 23, 2026.
Gladys was born on December 26, 1936, in Whitewater, Wisconsin, to Theresa Egnoski Riley. She was married to Walter Sobolik Sr., and later married James A. Hildebrandt in 1976.
Gladys was a hardworking woman who spent her life caring for others. She worked in school kitchens, restaurants, factories, and cleaning services. She concluded her working career as a full-time nanny. In that role, she lovingly cared for Andrew, Daniel, and Kaitlyn Drzewiecki, who became part of her chosen family.
Gladys is survived by her sons, Wally Sobolik and Robert Sobolik; her daughters, Janice Sobolik and Donna (John) Sherman; her grandchildren, Michael Sobolik, Margaret Sobolik, Cody Sherman, and Heidi Sherman; and her great-grandson, Adam Sobolik. She is also survived by her siblings, Elsie Beaver, Michael (Kathy) Riley, and Richard (Mary) Riley; her brother-in-law, Harlan (Sue) Hildebrandt; her chosen family, Jan and Mike Drzewiecki; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Special thanks to her niece Wanda Morrison for her care and support over the years including dumpling soup and chicken nuggie runs.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, Walter Sobolik Sr. and James A. Hildebrandt; her mother, Theresa Riley; and her siblings, Rose White, David Riley, Betty Franz, Gary Riley, Ronald Riley, Terry Riley, and Barb McKinney.
Gladys will be remembered for her strong work ethic, kind heart, and the care she gave so freely to those around her. She enjoyed many hobbies, including cooking, baking, BINGO, watching westerns (turned up loud so everyone could hear), going to the casino, bowling, needle pointing, crocheting, puzzles and playing a good game of poker with her family.
Gladys will be laid to rest with her mother at St. Patrick’s Calvary Catholic Cemetery. The family will hold a formal service and celebration of life on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 Newcomb Street, Whitewater, WI 53190, with visitation from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Prayer service to immediately follow.
Nitardy Funeral Home is serving the family. For online condolences, please visit www.nitardyfuneralhome.com.”
