Paul Bert Gabrielson

MIDDLETON - Paul Bert (Johnson) Gabrielson, age 66 passed away at his home on September 30, 2013 as a result of complications from cancer. Paul was born on May 2, 1947 in Madison, to Bertil and Bette Johnson. He attended Madison Public Schools and graduated from West High School. Paul began his career as a draftsman working for engineering firms in the Madison area. He learned how to take ideas from engineers and put those ideas onto paper, thus allowing those ideas to be built. He learned drafting and engineering skills working alongside his father, Bert, while employed at Mechanical Design, Inc. Paul eventually started his own plumbing design company, Design Services Midwest and did plumbing design for building projects in and around the Midwest area. Paul was an avid fisherman, hunter, card player and lover of good food, wine and music. He made his home an art statement in the way of his banners, flying banners celebrating the seasons, holidays and special occasions. He had many friends in the construction and design field and was always an excellent draftsman and designer. He also had many friends in his neighborhood in Middleton and was often the go-to neighbor when someone needed help. In a way to honor his mother’s heritage Paul changed his last name from Johnson to Gabrielson in 1979. Paul is survived by: his mother, Bette (Gabrielson) Johnson, Middleton; his sisters; Katherine (family nickname, Dede) Watlington, Poquoson, VA, Mary (Bill) Chandler, Madison; his brother; Mark (Barb) Johnson, Mount Horeb; his nieces and nephews: Jenny, Gabe, Alice, Teresa, Paul, Jack, Daniel, Susie, Kristin and Andy; step-niece, April; a step-nephew, Beau; many grand nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his father, Bertil Johnson; his brother, David Johnson; and brother-in-law Reid Watlington. A memorial service for the celebration of Paul’s life will be held at BLACKHAWK CHURCH, 9620 Brader Way, Madison on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013 at 2:00 pm. Light refreshments will follow the service. At the end of Paul’s life, he was embraced as a new Christian by the Care Team at Blackhawk Church and the family would like to thank the Blackhawk Care Ministry Team for their support of Paul. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.