Gerald James Orley, age 61, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, November 16, 2024. He was born on August 19, 1963, in Madison to Gerald A. and Marian "Carol" (Elliot) Orley. He attended Wisconsin Heights High School. In his younger years, Gerald spent time splitting wood and flooring eventually operating his own business, Orley's Flooring. He became the go-to guy when you needed flooring installed.

Gerald was a force of nature, hard-working, generous, and full of life. He had a special knack for giving everyone he encountered a unique nickname. Whether with family or friends, his humor, warmth, and infectious personality ensured his presence was always felt, bringing laughter and light to every room he entered. Gerald was an avid outdoorsman who cherished time spent on the water, especially fishing on the Wisconsin River in search of the next big muskie. He enjoyed camping with family and loved being out in nature. He loved playing cornhole and pool, and also played on several dart and volleyball leagues. Gerald's kindness, generosity, and genuine spirit made him a beloved figure to all who knew him. Above all, Gerald adored his children and grandchildren and mother. He shared a unique bond with each of them, from silly moments of play to heartfelt conversations, always ready to step up and do what he could for them. Sundays were reserved for his love of cheering for the Green Bay Packers and spending cherished time with his loved ones.

Gerald's legacy lives on through his children: Amber, Sarah, and Seth Orley; Karlie Sondreal; and Santana Hansen; his grandchildren: Terry, Terrell, Avianna, Brylen, David, Aliyah, Amiyah, and Kashton; his mother: Marion "Carol" Thiede; his siblings: Judy (Jeff) Eveland, Ed Orley, David Orley, Gary (Vicky) Coy, and Lisa Cloutier; and his longtime best friend, Tom Timmerman. He is further survived by many other relatives and friends who were blessed to know him.

Gerald was preceded in death by his father, Gerald A. Orley; his sister, Peggy; and his stepfather, Verlyn Thiede and other friends and relatives.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Gerald's life will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 3:30 pm at Hooverson Funeral Home, 251 Water St., Sauk City. Visitation will take place from 2:00 pm until the time of service.

Online condolences may be made at hooversonfuneralhomes.com