Bernard "Gil" Pladson
July 18, 1928 ~ December 16, 2014
Bernard Gilman (Gil) Pladson passed away on December 16, 2014 surrounded by his family and wonderful caregivers at Rosewood on Broadway.
Gil was born on July 18, 1928 in Kelvington, Saskatchewan, Canada on the family farm to Clara and Berndt Pladson. Dad knew the love of his father only a short time, as Berndt died when Gil was three. His mother persevered raising five children on her own, through such adversity that most of cannot imagine, yet Gil always shared the love for his mother and his memory of her singing to him and the other children. She passed when Gil was only ten.
Orphaned at a young age, Gil was sent to Hatton, North Dakota to live with an aunt and uncle, with his younger sister. Two of Gil’s brothers remained in Canada and his other sister was sent to live in Minnesota. The separation of the siblings caused a void for Gil that he spent years of his life filling up with his own family, then later reuniting with his brothers and sisters.
Gil attended high school in Hatton and graduated in 1946.
After high school, he worked at Hatton Lumber. Gil served our country as a member of the Army, stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict. He was very proud of his service and proud of our country.
Gil’s life began in earnest when he met Gayle DeAnn Strand in 1954. They met at a barn dance when Gayle was still in high school. As they danced, Gil noticed that they were being filmed for television. Gayle was most alarmed telling Gil that she told her parents she was going to church. They were in love -- true love.
Gil and Gayle married on June 30, 1956 and began their life in Fargo, North Dakota. While there, Gil worked at Crane Johnson Lumber Company for ten years. In 1967 he went to work for Gourmet Foods as a salesman traveling the tri-state area. He was named Salesman of the Year several times while at Gourmet Foods and retired in 1990. He was known for his smile, courtesy, professionalism and his ability to be a mentor to others.
More important to Gil was his job as a father. Gil set out to make sure his children knew his love. He also made sure the children knew of the love he had for Gayle. Gil was supportive of all of his children and proud of each one of them for their individual accomplishments. While he was on the road and Gayle was left with the children, he showered the children with love and attention on his return. Sometimes, he would take one of the kids out on the road with him creating memories and making teachable moments. Gil wanted to teach his children how to treat people, be kind, honest, look people in the eye, have a firm handshake and work hard. If you were in a moment with Gil, you were learning something. While visiting a local store one of his children found a $100 bill on the floor and looked at her dad with wide eyes. Gil promptly told her to take it to the cashier to see if anyone had lost it. That’s the kind of person Gil was.
Gil would be the first line of defense to protect any of his children. He was standing up for the children in many ways whether he was supporting their activities or hassling the occasional referee. For Gil his family comes first.
Gil and Gayle loved each other deeply and were married 58 years. He would show his love to her by holding her tightly and protecting the family. Gil struggled passing to the other side because he did not want to let her love go. She was his love, his best friend, his caregiver and his light. In the last many weeks when you saw Gil and Gayle together, you know you were looking at true love.
Gil and Gayle have four children, Robin (Richard) Costain; Kevin (DeAnn) Pladson; Tamara (Joe) Seifert; and Daren (Laura) Pladson. He was immensely proud of his children and his ten grandchildren: Allison (Ben), Brett (Maggie), Breann, Melissa, Kylee, Olivia, Betsy, Abby, Sydney and Ryley. He also had the chance to meet two of his great grandchildren, Adelaide and Stella. Gil shared his love of music with his children and grandchildren. He loved to sing and play the guitar at home for his own enjoyment or out and about for others. It is almost impossible to describe the amount of love Gil had in his heart for his family.
Gil is also survived by his brother Roy Pladson, Surrey, British Colombia, and his sisters Joyce Ramsey, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and Lenore Ulland, Fargo; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Boyd.
Gil’s family would like to thank the staff at Rosewood on Broadway for their hospitality and care for Gil during his stay; and Hospice of the Red River Valley for the support in the last weeks of Gil’s life.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
HUGO MN
I am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. We seem to never be prepared for losing a loved one under any circumstances. But knowing that he is playing his guitar and singing and watching over all of those he so dearly loved hopefully will bring some comfort during this time and the days to come. I have many wonderful memories of Mr. Pladson. He was a great supporter at Robin’s and my backyard productions! I really hope that he didn’t have his heart set on either of us joining Cirque du Soleil! While we both were by far good enough, I think that the path we each chose was by far much better! Gayle, you and Gil were of such a great influence in my life, both musically and morally. And I thank you for that. Gil touched many lives throughout his life…..He left this earth leaving a great legacy that I’m sure you all are immensely proud of. While I am unable to be there in person this weekend, please know that I am with you in spirit and send you much love and hugs.
Maple Ridge B.C.Gayle and Family, Please know that our thoughts are with you in this time of sorrow. We’ll remember our times spent with Gil, he always made it such a great occasion. He will be missed. We’re sending our love from B.C. Canada.
HUGO MN
I am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. We seem to never be prepared for losing a loved one under any circumstances. But knowing that he is playing his guitar and singing and watching over all of those he so dearly loved hopefully will bring some comfort during this time and the days to come. I have many wonderful memories of Mr. Pladson. He was a great supporter at Robin’s and my backyard productions! I really hope that he didn’t have his heart set on either of us joining Cirque du Soleil! While we both were by far good enough, I think that the path we each chose was by far much better! Gayle, you and Gil were of such a great influence in my life, both musically and morally. And I thank you for that. Gil touched many lives throughout his life…..He left this earth leaving a great legacy that I’m sure you all are immensely proud of. While I am unable to be there in person this weekend, please know that I am with you in spirit and send you much love and hugs.
Regina SaskatchewanAuntie Gayle and family,
My heart is aching for you all. Uncle Gilman was such a loving and gentle man. I will always remember his smile, the laughter and great hugs.
Love you, Judy
HUGO MN
I am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. We seem to never be prepared for losing a loved one under any circumstances. But knowing that he is playing his guitar and singing and watching over all of those he so dearly loved hopefully will bring some comfort during this time and the days to come. I have many wonderful memories of Mr. Pladson. He was a great supporter at Robin’s and my backyard productions! I really hope that he didn’t have his heart set on either of us joining Cirque du Soleil! While we both were by far good enough, I think that the path we each chose was by far much better! Gayle, you and Gil were of such a great influence in my life, both musically and morally. And I thank you for that. Gil touched many lives throughout his life…..He left this earth leaving a great legacy that I’m sure you all are immensely proud of. While I am unable to be there in person this weekend, please know that I am with you in spirit and send you much love and hugs.
Drake SaskI am so wishing that I could be in Fargo to be with you all. Uncle Gilman was one of the most caring and loving individuals I have ever known. I have such wonderful memories of the summer I spent in Fargo getting to know my relatives from the United States. The many trips Gilman and Gayle made to visit in Kelvington have left our family with great memories. Dad loved being together with his siblings. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Ed and Joanne Bergen
Horace North Dakota
We are so sorry for your loss. We know how difficult it is to lose someone you love so much.
We enjoyed seeing Gil at Rosewood when we were there visiting Art.
Our deepest sympathies.
Terry & Sharon Wieland and
Dorothy Wieland
Gresham OROur prayers and thoughts are with you during this time. Wilt and Juile (Kraft) Warren
New Hope MN
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Gil. When I think back, I can remember what a wonderful man he was. We lived next to the Pladsons for years when I was growing up. I remember anytime I would go to their home I was always greeted by a smile and felt so welcome. We would have block parties and Gil & Gayle would always add so much fun by their musical talents. Everyone would be having such a fun time. Hold onto all the wonderful memories you had with Gil, I’m sure there are many! You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I could be there this weekend to give you all a hug!
I know Gil & Marvin are up there just singing away!
Love to you all.
Mary
Gresham OROur deepest sympathy to your family during this time of grief. Wilt and Julie (Kraft) Warren
Fargo ND
Gil was a wonderful man! Always pleasant to talk to. He was always interested in what you had to say! My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Clay and Judy Whittlesey
Dear Gayle and Pladson family, please know I am thinking of you during this sad time, and keeping you all in my heart and prayers. Like Mark Dahlberg mentioned, I have many happy memories of the block parties where Gil would play guitar and there would be an impromptu concert. I could not think back on my childhood and growing up on Edgewood Drive without thinking of all of you, our next door neighbors. Sending your family lots of hugs and my deepest sympathies.
Duluth MN
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as we celebrate the memories of our time with Gil and mourn his death. My mom, Edith Teske, sends her prayers.
Troy OhioPladson Family,
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband and father. I remember Gil from my early teaching days at North High. He was a great Spartan booster and was so very proud of all of his children and their accomplishments. I used to tell him that he looked like a movie star and he always got a kick out of that comment. I’m sure that he was a great husband and father and will be deeply missed by all of you. What a wonderful legacy he left behind with the fine family that he and your mother raised! My sympathy to all of you at this difficult time.
Best regards,
Don Dumais
Gayle and familiy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Joyce has always been very proud of her little brother whom she loved dearly. We’re sending you lots of love and hugs from Saskatoon. xoxo
West Fargo ND
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Pladson’s passing. I remember him playing his guitar and singing when I was in Sunday School at Peace Lutheran Church. My dad (Al Erickson) was the pastor at the time, and he always talked fondly of the Pladson family and their musical talents. My prayers are with your entire family during this time.
Emily (Erickson) Hagen
Minneapolis MN
I have such fond memories of Gil. He always greeted people with a smile and a kind word.
Growing up next door to Gil & Gayle, I remember many a block party on Edgewood Drive watching them entertain the neighbors (Gil on guitar and Gayle on bass). I can still here him saying “walk it Gayle” during their performances. And I still say those words out loud whenever I hear someone doing a bass solo.
Some of my fondest memories of growing up have to do with Gil/Gayle and their family.
I wish you all peace during this time of sorrow.
Moorhead MnSo sorry to hear of Gil’s death. My condolences are with you. He will be so well remembered.
Fargo North Dakota
Gayle and Pladson family, I am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. I have no words to lessen the pain of your loss, but you’re in my thoughts and I pray that God grant you strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Perham MN
To the Pladson family – anyone who ever met Gil never forgot him. He had that way of making you feel like you were his friend and he sure loved to tease. Don always remembers when every we met up with you, Gil would always look at Don and ask “Now who are you again?” Then he would laugh and say “Oh yah, your Hendrickx”. We will forever remember our Dad’s 60th birthday in the screen porch in Perham and how Gil and Gayle played and sang and our son Matt and nephew Tony were so impressed with them. In fact, I have a video of that time. If we hear “I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail” – we will always think of Gil. He reminded me so much of my Dad John – quiet, sweet and always just watching and observing the wonderful family that they created. So glad that they will once again be reunited and share those good old times. Memories will be being you comfort in the days ahead, so make sure to relive many of them. Love to you all .
Rochester MN
I loved my “Uncle Gil”. He was always kind to me. He taught me how to play my guitar, to laugh, to enjoy the simple things in life and to love family and friends. I will always have a place in my heart for him.
Bismarck ND
Gayle and family, We are thinking of you! Uncle Gil was such a wonderful man! See you soon. Love, Kathy and Paul Fraase
Our deepest Sympathy for you and your family at this difficult time! Jeff and Kristi Johnson and Kids
HUGO MNI am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. We seem to never be prepared for losing a loved one under any circumstances. But knowing that he is playing his guitar and singing and watching over all of those he so dearly loved hopefully will bring some comfort during this time and the days to come. I have many wonderful memories of Mr. Pladson. He was a great supporter at Robin’s and my backyard productions! I really hope that he didn’t have his heart set on either of us joining Cirque du Soleil! While we both were by far good enough, I think that the path we each chose was by far much better! Gayle, you and Gil were of such a great influence in my life, both musically and morally. And I thank you for that. Gil touched many lives throughout his life…..He left this earth leaving a great legacy that I’m sure you all are immensely proud of. While I am unable to be there in person this weekend, please know that I am with you in spirit and send you much love and hugs. ;
Maple Ridge B.C.Gayle and Family, Please know that our thoughts are with you in this time of sorrow. We’ll remember our times spent with Gil, he always made it such a great occasion. He will be missed. We’re sending our love from B.C. Canada. ;
HUGO MNI am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. We seem to never be prepared for losing a loved one under any circumstances. But knowing that he is playing his guitar and singing and watching over all of those he so dearly loved hopefully will bring some comfort during this time and the days to come. I have many wonderful memories of Mr. Pladson. He was a great supporter at Robin’s and my backyard productions! I really hope that he didn’t have his heart set on either of us joining Cirque du Soleil! While we both were by far good enough, I think that the path we each chose was by far much better! Gayle, you and Gil were of such a great influence in my life, both musically and morally. And I thank you for that. Gil touched many lives throughout his life…..He left this earth leaving a great legacy that I’m sure you all are immensely proud of. While I am unable to be there in person this weekend, please know that I am with you in spirit and send you much love and hugs. ;
Regina SaskatchewanAuntie Gayle and family,
My heart is aching for you all. Uncle Gilman was such a loving and gentle man. I will always remember his smile, the laughter and great hugs.
Love you, Judy;
HUGO MNI am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. We seem to never be prepared for losing a loved one under any circumstances. But knowing that he is playing his guitar and singing and watching over all of those he so dearly loved hopefully will bring some comfort during this time and the days to come. I have many wonderful memories of Mr. Pladson. He was a great supporter at Robin’s and my backyard productions! I really hope that he didn’t have his heart set on either of us joining Cirque du Soleil! While we both were by far good enough, I think that the path we each chose was by far much better! Gayle, you and Gil were of such a great influence in my life, both musically and morally. And I thank you for that. Gil touched many lives throughout his life…..He left this earth leaving a great legacy that I’m sure you all are immensely proud of. While I am unable to be there in person this weekend, please know that I am with you in spirit and send you much love and hugs. ;
Drake SaskI am so wishing that I could be in Fargo to be with you all. Uncle Gilman was one of the most caring and loving individuals I have ever known. I have such wonderful memories of the summer I spent in Fargo getting to know my relatives from the United States. The many trips Gilman and Gayle made to visit in Kelvington have left our family with great memories. Dad loved being together with his siblings. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Ed and Joanne Bergen;
Horace North DakotaWe are so sorry for your loss. We know how difficult it is to lose someone you love so much.
We enjoyed seeing Gil at Rosewood when we were there visiting Art.
Our deepest sympathies.
Terry & Sharon Wieland and
Dorothy Wieland
;
Gresham OROur prayers and thoughts are with you during this time. Wilt and Juile (Kraft) Warren;
New Hope MNI was so sorry to hear about the passing of Gil. When I think back, I can remember what a wonderful man he was. We lived next to the Pladsons for years when I was growing up. I remember anytime I would go to their home I was always greeted by a smile and felt so welcome. We would have block parties and Gil & Gayle would always add so much fun by their musical talents. Everyone would be having such a fun time. Hold onto all the wonderful memories you had with Gil, IтАЩm sure there are many! You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I could be there this weekend to give you all a hug!
I know Gil & Marvin are up there just singing away!
Love to you all.
Mary
;
Gresham OROur deepest sympathy to your family during this time of grief. Wilt and Julie (Kraft) Warren;
Fargo ND
Gil was a wonderful man! Always pleasant to talk to. He was always interested in what you had to say! My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Clay and Judy Whittlesey;
Dear Gayle and Pladson family, please know I am thinking of you during this sad time, and keeping you all in my heart and prayers. Like Mark Dahlberg mentioned, I have many happy memories of the block parties where Gil would play guitar and there would be an impromptu concert. I could not think back on my childhood and growing up on Edgewood Drive without thinking of all of you, our next door neighbors. Sending your family lots of hugs and my deepest sympathies. ;
Duluth MNOur thoughts and prayers are with you as we celebrate the memories of our time with Gil and mourn his death. My mom, Edith Teske, sends her prayers.;
Troy OhioPladson Family,
I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband and father. I remember Gil from my early teaching days at North High. He was a great Spartan booster and was so very proud of all of his children and their accomplishments. I used to tell him that he looked like a movie star and he always got a kick out of that comment. I’m sure that he was a great husband and father and will be deeply missed by all of you. What a wonderful legacy he left behind with the fine family that he and your mother raised! My sympathy to all of you at this difficult time.
Best regards,
Don Dumais;
Gayle and familiy, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Joyce has always been very proud of her little brother whom she loved dearly. We’re sending you lots of love and hugs from Saskatoon. xoxo;
West Fargo ND
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Pladson’s passing. I remember him playing his guitar and singing when I was in Sunday School at Peace Lutheran Church. My dad (Al Erickson) was the pastor at the time, and he always talked fondly of the Pladson family and their musical talents. My prayers are with your entire family during this time.
Emily (Erickson) Hagen;
Minneapolis MNI have such fond memories of Gil. He always greeted people with a smile and a kind word.
Growing up next door to Gil & Gayle, I remember many a block party on Edgewood Drive watching them entertain the neighbors (Gil on guitar and Gayle on bass). I can still here him saying \”walk it Gayle\” during their performances. And I still say those words out loud whenever I hear someone doing a bass solo.
Some of my fondest memories of growing up have to do with Gil/Gayle and their family.
I wish you all peace during this time of sorrow.
;
Moorhead MnSo sorry to hear of Gil’s death. My condolences are with you. He will be so well remembered.;
Fargo North DakotaGayle and Pladson family, I am so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing. I have no words to lessen the pain of your loss, but you’re in my thoughts and I pray that God grant you strength and comfort during this difficult time.;
Perham MNTo the Pladson family – anyone who ever met Gil never forgot him. He had that way of making you feel like you were his friend and he sure loved to tease. Don always remembers when every we met up with you, Gil would always look at Don and ask \”Now who are you again?\” Then he would laugh and say \”Oh yah, your Hendrickx\”. We will forever remember our Dad’s 60th birthday in the screen porch in Perham and how Gil and Gayle played and sang and our son Matt and nephew Tony were so impressed with them. In fact, I have a video of that time. If we hear \”I’ve Got a Tiger by the Tail\” – we will always think of Gil. He reminded me so much of my Dad John – quiet, sweet and always just watching and observing the wonderful family that they created. So glad that they will once again be reunited and share those good old times. Memories will be being you comfort in the days ahead, so make sure to relive many of them. Love to you all .
;
Rochester MNI loved my \”Uncle Gil\”. He was always kind to me. He taught me how to play my guitar, to laugh, to enjoy the simple things in life and to love family and friends. I will always have a place in my heart for him.;
Bismarck ND
Gayle and family, We are thinking of you! Uncle Gil was such a wonderful man! See you soon. Love, Kathy and Paul Fraase;
Our deepest Sympathy for you and your family at this difficult time! Jeff and Kristi Johnson and Kids;