'An institutional legend': Beloved Carroll University cafeteria worker dies

WAUKESHA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Gert Ullsperger worked at Carroll University for 56 years. The university announced the news of Gert's passing on Thursday. 

Staff say greetings from Gert made the days a little brighter. 

CBS 58 spoke with Kelly Gehringer, senior communications specialist at Carroll University. She is saddened to hear of Gert's passing. 

"She started out working in our dining hall, which was eventually named after her in 2018. She was so full of light and love and she will certainly be missed. We talk about our ethos, which is respect, integrity and stewardship. Gert certainly lived up to all those traits here. It's pretty unheard of and we have nothing but fond memories and joyful recollections of Gert on campus," said Gehringer. 

CBS 58 also spoke with Nicole Schuch, assistant director of student activities at Carroll University. She knew Gert as a student. 

"Before I even met her, I knew about her. She was just this institutional legend. It didn't matter if it was your first time meeting her or the fifth time you saw her that week eating breakfast...she gave you that same wrap-around warm hug," said Schuch. 

Now, those on campus are fondly remembering the woman who served up smiles each and every day. 

"I've seen a lot of comments about how heaven gained another angel, and certainly she just left a legacy here of truly living every day to the fullest. I just think, what would Gert do? That is really is what I would say. Just really spreading a message of kindness and of warmth and joy," said Gehringer. 

Funeral arrangements are pending. Cards and other expressions of sympathy can be mailed to:

Marsha James
1010 Wisteria Lane
Waukesha, WI 53189