Gail Bentzinger

Gail was a mentor of mine when I first started zookeeping. I know I tested her patience, but she was always kind, graceful and knowledgeable. I missed her steady demeanor and knowledge of everything after I left. The sophistication she brought to the art of zookeeping was a rare gift. Rest well Gail, you will be missed. ❤

May you have only wonderful memories of Gail. I worked with her at the St Louis Zoo from 1962 to 1964 while we were in high school. I´ve been trying to connect with her for many years when I moved back to St Louis, couldn´t find her. She was a wonderful friend & we had lots of good times together.

I first met Gail at the Zoo when I started working there in 1989. We were friends for many years. Gail always had time to chat and share her love for the animals. I will miss her.

So sorry to learn about Gail. She always had a twinkle in her eye, a wealth of experience and a wonderful curiosity.

Gail was a dear friend to me and I will always remember her as my mentor and friend in the Bird House. Her love for those in her care was amazing to watch and she taught me so many things. She certainly had her favorites like the little mousebirds and Mr Pratincole. We remained friends after our zoo days and I just cherished that friendship. I will miss you my friend.

Your Uncle Jack and I were sorry to hear that your sister passed away. May Your Uncle Jack and I were sorry to hear that your sister Gail had passed away. May God be with you as you mourn. Our love to you both. Jack and Norma

I worked with Gail for many years at the Bird House and she taught me a lot when I first worked in the bird department. She was incredibly passionate about the animals she cared for and I remember her most favorite birds were Mr. Pratincole and Jack the Hawk-headed parrot. She had many wonderful stories to share about the people and animals at the zoo and some of the escapades that she was involved in over her 40+ years of working as a keeper. She was the first female keeper at the zoo and...

I greatly enjoyed working with Gail for many years at the Zoo. She was one of my first mentors when I began working as an antelope keeper in 1978. Gail was a wonderful animal caregiver, but more importantly, she was a friend to many. Gail was a special person and will be missed. Steve