Gwendolyn Ann Milani, Age 95, of Anaconda, Montana

Gwendolyn Ann Dunn Cerise Milani passed away at the age of 95 on February 19, 2024 in the Anaconda Hospital with her family at her bedside while holding her hands. Gwen was born in Walkerville, Montana on August 6, 1928. She was the first child born to Martha (Holman) and Edward Dunn. Three years later Gwen was joined by sister, Martha.

Gwen attended St. Lawrence Catholic grade school and went on to attend Butte High School. As an adult Gwen received her GED. On April 26, 1948, Gwen married the love of her life, Joseph Cerise. Three children were added to the family-Joe, Gwen, and Jerry. On April 30,1988, the love of her life, Joe, passed away. Several years later she married Cesare Milani and he passed away on April 17, 2002.

During Gwen’s adult life, she spent her time as a homemaker. She acted as a Girl  Scout and Boy Scout leader. She participated in her children’s school activities while thoroughly enjoying her children’s youth. Many happy hours were spent with her parents and her sister’s family sharing holidays, picnics, and just good old fun.

Gwen’s baking and cake decorating skills were put to use in the catering her and Joe did for many years. She also enjoyed painting, embroidery, gardening, and ceramics, but most of all, entertaining family and friends for dinner in her home.

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents, Martha and Ed Dunn; husbands, Joe Cerise and Cesare Milani; sister, Martha Luthey; stepson, Claudio Milani; and granddaughter, Rebecca Cerise.

Gwen is survived by her children, Joe Cerise (Jackie), Gwen Waggoner (Bob), and Jerry Cerise (Debbie). Surviving grandchildren are Toni and Dave, Shaun and Caaren, Staci and Nate, Misty and Dave, Catrina and Erik, Shane and Afton, and Dustin. Surviving great­ grandchildren are Zachary, Brandon, DJ, Walker, Aspen, Isabelle, Marcus, Chloe, Shanie, Oren, Lee, Derick, Aba, and Addie. Other survivors are a special niece, Sheree Isola, stepchildren, Don Jones, Patricia Martin, and Marco Milani, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service will begin with a 10 A.M. visitation, followed by 11 A.M. mass on Saturday, March 2nd at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 4400 Continental Dr., Butte, Montana. A reception will follow at the Race Track Fire Hall, 2344 Grand Ave., Butte, MT. Interment  will take place at the Whitehall Cemetery at a later date.

We would like to thank Gwen’s great caregivers at New Horizon Assisted living facility. Also, to the Anaconda Hospital CCU staff and Deanna, for the incredible care they gave to Gwen and the outstanding support to us during Gwen’s time in their care.

Donations can be made to the donors choice.

We love and will miss you.

Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Gwendolyn.

Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Gwendolyn and her family.

Service Schedule

Visitation

10:00 am

Saturday March 2, 2024

Holy Spirit Catholic Church

4400 Continental Dr.

Butte, Montana 59701

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Funeral Mass

11:00 a.m.

Saturday March 2, 2024

Holy Spirit Catholic Church

4400 Continental Drive

Butte, Montana 59701

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Reception

12:00 p.m.

Saturday March 2, 2024

Race Track Fire Hall

2344 Grand Ave.

Butte, Montana 59701

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