Opal E. Gault

Opal Edith Gault, a beacon of adventurous spirit and boundless love, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, at Bay Shores Nursing and Rehab. Born on July 8, 1923, in Milburn, Nebraska to Pratt and Chloe (Wright) Harmon, Opal's journey was one marked by resilience, joy, and unwavering faith.

A treasured mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, Opal's legacy is carried on through her loving family. She is survived by her children, Doris (Bob) Elmendorf, Margaret Bowling, Michael (Jennifer) Roth, Jenette Roth, Robert (Susan) Roth, Barbara Roth, and Deborah (Leonard) Davis. Her vibrant lineage continues with 16 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished deeply. The memory of her son Joseph Roth, as well as her siblings Louise Soll, Raymond, Walter, John, Howard, and Russell Harmon, who predeceased her, will forever be held close in her heart.

Opal's upbringing in the Christian church instilled in her a lifelong devotion to her faith, and she often spoke of reuniting with her loved ones in heaven. Her stories of hitchhiking across the country, finding work, and securing a place to stay exemplified her self-reliance and adventurous spirit. As a young woman, she moved with her family to Rivertown, Wyoming, in pursuit of farm work, later returning to Nebraska to continue their agricultural endeavors.

When faced with the challenges of single motherhood, Opal's tenacity shone through as she provided for her family by working as a waitress, most notably for Hudson's in Detroit to Westland, and ultimately to Saginaw after relocating to Caseville. Her dedication to her children never wavered, and as they grew, she continued to work with Hudson's as a waitress.

Opal's zest for life was infectious, and her 100th birthday celebration was a testament to that. Her sidecar motorcycle ride, driven by Dennis "Flipper" Nieschulz, captured the hearts of many and was immortalized by Channel 5 in Saginaw. The Facebook page "Opal's Ride" became a hub for the community to participate in her milestone celebrations, illustrating the impact of her vivacious spirit on all who knew her.

Gardening, singing, cooking, dancing, and canning food were among Opal's many joys. Yet, above all else, it was the time spent with her family that she treasured most. She was a matriarch who led by example, teaching her family the value of hard work, the importance of kindness, and the joys of living life to the fullest.

Opal Edith Gault was the epitome of an adventurous, loving, and selfless soul. Her stories, laughter, and the lessons she imparted will continue to resonate with her family and all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. Her memory will be celebrated, and her spirit will continue to inspire, as she embarks on her final journey to the heavenly reunion she so fervently believed in.

Per Opal's request cremation has taken place, arrangements have been entrusted to the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers those wishing an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation to Bay Shores Senior Care Center in Opal's name to generate a fund for others to get their salon services that would not be able to afford them.