Gail McCallister Hackensmith

Gail McCallister Hackensmith passed away on March 30, 2024, at Hanson House with her loving family beside her. She was born on July 31, 1946, to James L. and Dorothy (Moore) McCallister.

She and her younger brother Gary grew up in Arlington, Va. Gail graduated from Yorktown High School before going on to receive both an associate of arts degree from Averett College in Danville, Va. and a bachelor's degree in English literature from the University of Kentucky. Gail met Charles Hackensmith there, leading to their marriage which lasted 57 years.

She worked for the state of Wisconsin in Madison, was adjunct to the director of graduate admissions for the computer science department at the University of Wisconsin. After the arrival of two children, Dana and Jeffrey, she became a stay-at-home mom until they were of school age and she went to work as the administrative assistant at Stevensville United Methodist Church for the next 23 years.

Gail and Charlie held season tickets to men's basketball at Notre Dame for 20 years and also belonged to the local Corvette Club where they had fun going on road trips and car shows. Her favorite annual event was the Father's Day show at Lemon Creek Winery. Gail turned chauffeur for the horses, pulling the trailer for Dana's horses so she could compete at area shows and our local county 4-H fair.

In the fall, Gail and Charlie traveled to band competitions up and down the west coast of Michigan, where their son, Jeff played the baritone for Lakeshore Marching Band. In addition to her children, Gail's greatest joy was her granddaughter, Nora, with whom she was blessed to have spent 16 years.

Gail enjoyed reading, needle work and spending time with friends but her children and grandchild were the highlight of her life. Gail is survived by her husband, Charles Hackensmith; her daughter, Dana Hackensmith; her son, Jeff Hackensmith; her granddaughter, Nora Billings; and her brother, Gary McCallister.

The memorial is still being finalized and should take place in May. Memorials can be made in her name to Lincoln Township Public Library, 2099 W. John Beers Road, Stevensville, MI 49127, where as an avid reader she spent countless hours finding her next must read.

Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 556-9450.