Gail L. Gettelman
8/23/1953 - 2/7/2026
Obituary For Gail L. Gettelman
Gail L. Gettelman, 72, of Eau Claire passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Marshfield Medical Center-Eau Claire.
Gail was born on August 23, 1953, to Eugene and Arlene (Fairbanks) Gettelman in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Gail is survived by her significant other, Jim Gleason; her two sons, Ben (Abby) McHugh and Chris McHugh; Chris’s significant other, Serina Stratton; her cherished grandchildren, Gianna, Vincent, and Enzo. She is also survived by her brother, Darryl Gettelman, and his daughter, Nicole; and her sisters, Denise (Rick) Eggleston and their daughters, Toni and Stephanie; and Natalie (Shelden) Wical.
Gail was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Arlene Gettelman
Gail was a devoted Christian whose faith was an important part of her life. She has now met her Savior, Jesus, and rests in eternal peace.
Gail and Jim’s love story began in high school. Though they never dated, their connection was undeniable. Jim once wrote affectionately in her yearbook that she was his “passion fruit” and expressed “how difficult it was to resist her.” Life took them in different directions, and they spent more than 30 years apart. God stepped in years later when Gail ran into a cute car salesman—Jim. That day, she not only drove away with a new car, but also a new boyfriend, rekindling a love that had been waiting decades to bloom.
They cherished the time they were able to spend together—enjoying trips to the casino, playing Jeopardy, and sharing countless laughs.
Gail had a special talent for sewing and took great pride in creating beautiful handmade pieces for those she loved. She also found great joy in gardening and had a fondness for collecting gnomes, which brought character and charm to her home and yard. Last but certainly not least, she thoroughly enjoyed playing bingo and spending time with her grandkids.
“My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
- John 14:2-3
In accordance with Gail’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. Friends and family may leave online condolences at www.smithfuneralec.com.
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