Gail R. Lanier

1927 - 2014

Gail R. Lanier

Gail passed into the presence of her Lord on June 17, 2014.

Gail is survived by her sons Michael (Debbie) and Steve (Cam); grandchildren Phil (Shavonne) Michelle (Dom), Andrew (Gabbie) and Jennifer; and great-grandchildren Kiera, McKenzie and Nikki. She was preceded in death by her husband Roger, sister Lois Cornelius and grandson Matt.

Gail was born in 1927 in Leadville, CO to Lewis and Elizabeth Rist. Gail's father was employed with the U.S. Forest Service and she spent much of her childhood in Durango, Colorado. She met her future husband, Roger, at Fort Lewis College in Colorado. Following Roger's graduation from what is now Colorado State University, he became employed with the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey (now part of NOAA). Roger's career took the family around much of the United States, including a four year period in which they lived in a 32 foot trailer so they could uproot at a moment's notice when Roger was transferred and head to the next work site. During those years Gail was a stay-at-home wife and mother to care for her family.

After Roger's retirement, Gail and Roger enjoyed life in Potomac, MD. Roger's declining health led them to re-locate to the Seattle area to be closer to their sons. It was during that time she fulfilled a long-standing promise to publish a book about a dear friend, Gertrude Ticer.

Gail remained active and independent throughout most of her life. Her faith remained strong and vibrant even as she physically declined during the final year of her life on this earth, and through this was an inspiration to many. She was loved by family and friends, and will be missed.

A memorial service will be held 1:00 Thursday, July 3rd at Cristwood, 350 N 190th St 190th, Shoreline, WA.