I remember the night Gail brought her new fiance over to our house to meet my mother, father, and we children ...she and Mother had practically grown up together and were very close friends, although Gail was, technically, her niece and my cousin. We, all, loved her so. She was precious to us and we were quite protective of her. In walked this tall, handsome, dark-haired young man in a trench coat, just behind her ...humble, sweet, a touch shy, warm, and gracious, resembling Superman. Gail was beaming as she introduced him to us. Before mid-evening, he was considered by our family to be a welcome, permanent member of the family. You see, Gail had exquisite taste. I have so many beloved memories of Gail and her cherished family, that I could not possibly list them all here. So I shall continue to hold such treasures dear, in her memory and in her honor. She was a rare blessing to us, all, and it is our good fortune that she is alive forever in the memories of those who love her. With much love and gratitude, Janie
Memories
I remember Gail and her sense of humor, her devotion to her family, and her gentle spirit.
No matter how difficult her treatment, she never complained. She was such an inspiration to all of us.
Will always remember her. My thoughts and prayers are with the family always.
Silvia Maxwell
Every memory I have of Gail is of her smiling. Every one.
God bless the Purtan family.
Dear Purtan family. I had the honor of caring for Mrs Purtan for a brief time. After spending time with her and Mr Purtan and meeting several daughters I can say you family is a tribute to Dick and Gail's love and devotion. I know the loss of loving Christian parents and also know someday there will be a glorious reunion in heaven. I will pray for you during this difficult time. You have touched my heart and I was blessed by the short time I spent with you. You have touched more lives than you know.
Hi Dick, this truly has to be a sad time for you. I never got to know Gail well; I think we saw her at the two Kenmore High School reunions that we had. But, I was aware of what the two of you had been going thru, with Gail battling both Ovarian and Breast cancer. Bob Thompson had kept us up to date with your activities including an article in the Oakland Press around February 2010 which seemed to summarize your history up to that date. I remember two things; first when you toured our Indian Guide pack thru the WXYZ studios, and secondly when I was your "engineer" in your bedroom as you were the disk jockey transmitting music to the world! This was after school in Kenmore; I believe 1952-3? My best wishes to you. I am so sorry for your loss. But it appears that you have a great family to fall back on. My wife Pat and I have lived in California since 1980.