Spend even a few moments with resident Marge Gerber, and her warmth, wit, and unmistakable spark are impossible to miss. Though she’s only called Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale home for a short time, Marge has already left an impression on residents and the team alike—her personality fills every room she enters.



Marge’s story begins in the charming town of Stoughton, about half an hour from Madison, where she grew up alongside her sister and brother. Her father worked in real estate, while her mother devoted herself to raising the children. Even in her school years, Marge was no stranger to achievement: she was crowned Homecoming Queen as a senior, and her years as a Norwegian dancer—an honor in Stoughton—are still a point of pride.

After high school, Marge headed to the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, where she studied both German and Physical Education, eventually majoring in German with a minor in P.E. She brought both passions to her teaching career, first instructing high schoolers in both subjects before dedicating 33 years to teaching German—a role she cherished.

Family is the steady center of Marge’s life. She was married to her first husband for 23 years, raising three children—two daughters and a son—in Stoughton. Their story began at the Holiday Inn, where both worked summer jobs and Marge served tables.

Marge’s second great love story reads like a scene from a romantic comedy. She’d known Norm, a local businessman, for years. One evening, with her trademark decisiveness, she picked up the phone at exactly 8:58 p.m.—“never after 9,” she insists—and invited Norm to see The Da Vinci Code. Though he claimed to be too busy that weekend, Marge returned from shopping the next day to find two messages: Norm’s schedule had magically cleared. She later learned he was used to early bedtimes because of his mornings at the lumberyard. By their third date—after Marge cooked for him—Norm was hooked.

Norm was a self-made success, running two lumberyards and three hardware stores, choosing business over the family farm. Their years together were full of laughter, hard work, and deep connection.

These days, Marge is devoted to her children and grandchildren. Her oldest daughter is mother to two sets of twins—ages 14 and 11—while her second daughter, an FBI special agent, has two girls of her own. Her son still lives close by and enjoys spending time with the family.

At Renaissance, Marge has jumped into community life with both feet. She’s already inspired interest in a card club and, as an avid Bridge player, has quickly found a circle of fellow enthusiasts. Barney and Buddy—her beloved cats—made the move with her, helping to make her new home complete.

Above all, Marge believes in the power of positive and forward thinking. Her energy, confidence, and welcoming spirit make her unforgettable. We’re grateful she’s chosen to share her next chapter with us at Renaissance.