Gail Patricia Lemma

Gail P. Lemma, 79, Knowlton, died Thursday, March 13, 2025. She was born Jan. 7, 1946, the daughter of the late Hilbert and Myrtle (McGowan) Simonis. She married Leon Lemma on July 19, 1975, in Mosinee, WI. He survives.

Gail was a simple lady who loved traveling, flea markets, thrifting, journaling, puzzling, dancing to the 50’s, gardening, casino trips, and eating great food. She loved visiting with her family and friends. Gail will be missed at the family gatherings which she loved. Everything she ever cooked had that magic ingredient, love. She was grandma to Shannon’s Daycare as much as her own.

Gail married Darrel Nelson from 1963-1966.

While caring for three children she graduated from cosmetology school. Then returned to Wausau East High School to graduate with the class of 1973.

She married her husband of 49 years on July 19,1975. They wintered in Florida for eighteen years. Gail held various jobs along the way, one of her favorites being Capt. Doug’s Restaurant in Key Largo, FL. In 1996 Gail and Leon bought Gail’s Place in Knowlton, WI. She turned it into a thriving business for fifteen years. Many people came just to see Gail for her great spirit and friendship. She retired in 2012.

Beside her husband, she is survived by Four Children; Richard (Karen) Nelson, Kari (Terri) Staszak, Troy Lemma, Shannon (Nick) Pelot; Seven Grandchildren, Samantha Nelson, Tyler (Jessica) Nelson, Alicia Nelson (Dan Drost), Lisa (Dan) Tesch, Katara (Wade) Kaiser, Hydee (Dennis) Shaw, Skylar Simonis; Fifteen Greatgrandchildren; Aiden, Liam, Daniel, Tammy, Taylor, Aurora, Evelyn, Espin, Ian, Dawson, Cashus, Arthur, Flora, Paisley and Jubilee; Two brothers, Richard, Ronnie and one beloved sister, Sally.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, a brother Randy Simonis, grandson Charles Tabaka, Sister-in-law Barbara Simonis.

A funeral service will be 7:00 pm, Friday, March 21, 2025, at Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee. The Champlain Mark Lewis will officiate. Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until the time of service at the funeral home. Online condolences can be made at www.bestefh.com.