Charles and Sue Gelatt have provided tremendous support to many organizations and causes in our community, filling a need to those worthwhile, or those experiencing difficulties and challenges. Although Charles and Sue may take different approaches to their philanthropy, their generosity and leadership has been similarly substantial, and given without fanfare or desire for personal recognition.

Charles D. Gelatt was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin on January 4, 1918. He attended public schools in La Crosse, Lake Forest Academy and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1939. Charles became active in the management of the Northern Engraving Company, building it into one of the nation’s leading fabricators of decorated metal parts for the automotive and appliance industries. He pioneered a number of manufacturing innovations and industrial developments.

Charles’ long list of business and civic leadership includes: former board member and Chairman of North Central Trust; Past President of the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents; Former Chairman of the Association of Governing Boards, Washington, DC; Past President of the Gundersen Foundation Board; and a Current Board member at Viterbo University.

Sue Anne Conner Gelatt was born on December 5, 1944 at Langley Air Force Base in New Port News, Virginia, and was raised in La Crosse. She attended several high schools, including La Crosse Central High School and Ela Vernon and Lake Forest High Schools in Illinois. She also attended UW-Whitewater.



Sue has an endless history of community involvement. She is a past board member and President of the Board of the United Way, and is currently on their Major Gifts Committee. Having a special place in her heart for children, she has actively supported Cathedral School, Chileda Institute, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Family and Children’s Center and the Children’s Museum. In 2001, Sue and Charles donated $2 million to the new Gundersen Lutheran cancer center. They are also honorary chairpersons of the cancer center’s capital campaign.