Obituary of Gail Wilkens

FLORA “GAIL” WALL WILKENS

1954-2025

Gail lost her battle with Alzheimer’s disease on May 22, 2025. Preceded in death by her husband Bob, her parents Floyd and Mary, and her special pups Fuzzi, Furri, Gracie and Daisy.

Gail was born on May 18, 1954 in Franklin Virginia. At age 18 she left Franklin for Minneapolis to attend McConnell Airline School and made Minneapolis and the surrounding area her home until her death. Gail spent her business career as an incentive travel executive. She was mentored by world travel expert Peter Docherty and worked for Pete in various executive positions for much of her career. Gail traveled the world and counted her many travel associates in “the business” among her most cherished friends. She was a past president of SITE (Society of Incentive Travel Executives), a position she considered a great honor.

Gail loved senior citizens and children and never missed an opportunity to compliment them and bring a smile to their face. Butterflies, grasshoppers and caterpillars were Gail’s friends. At Gail’s request, if you see a caterpillar crawling on a path or sidewalk, please gently pick it up and move it onto the grass so it is protected from the sun and human feet that may crush it. Gail had a green thumb and found great peace in “playing with her flowers”. She created a beautiful flower display outside of her home and tended to each flower with loving care. A few words that friends have used to describe Gail are: Caring, God Loving, Funny, Gentle, Spicy, Flirtatious and Determined.

Gail is survived by her sister Joani Surace (Tony) of Chesapeake Va and brother Rob Wall (Marilyn) of Hilliard OH, niece Mandy Baker (Michael), nephew James Surace (Jill), and great-nephew Carter Baker. She is also survived by many longtime friends, colleagues and neighbors. Gail will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by her best friend of 50 years Pat Burger.

A very special Thank You to Gail’s cherished friends Carol Dixon and Lois Carter for their love and care and for being by her side until the end. Thank you for the special memories Bagon and family.

Our most sincere thank you to the caregivers, staff, residents and resident families at Urbana Place Senior Living for the love, care and fun times provided to Gail during her 2 year stay in Legacy Court. Your care, concern, respect and dignity will never be forgotten. Thank you to the nurses and caregivers at Life Spark Hospice who offered comfort and love as Gail transitioned to heaven.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in remembrance of Gail.

As the flowers bloom and the birds sing we invite you to an open house celebration of Gail’s life, Saturday, July 12 1:00-3:00 at 2901 109th Ave NW Coon Rapids. Casual dress.