In loving memory of
Gail Marie Palen
August 27, 1952 - November 9, 2007
When we are motivated by goals that have deep meaning, by dreams that need completing, by pure love that needs expressing, then we truly live life. This was the life of Gail Palen. A beloved daughter, sister, mother and grandmother, each day was a blessing she shared with those she loved.
The 1950s were a picturesque time in our history. Neighborhoods and schools were bursting at the seams with children and the Baby Boom was in full swing. Gail Palen was one of those Baby Boomers. Born on August 27, 1952, her parents,Floyd Shaft, Sr. and Betty (Teegardin/Shaft) Fisher, were having a boom of their own. Along with her sisters Cheryl and Carol, and brothers Dale and Floyd, Jr., Gail and her siblings filled their home with laughter.
Gail filled her days with family and fun. She married Alan Wisniewski and loving welcomed his children Shannon and Jason. She later became the proud mother of Jamie, Rita, Jesse and Jonathon. She loved all of her family, treating them as one big happy family. She especially loved her grandchildren, adopting two of them.
She had worked for over 16 years as an assembler at Grand Transformers Incorporated, located in Grand Haven. When not working or spending time with her family, Gail could be found enjoying the great outdoors. She loved camping, hunting and target shooting. Animals held a special place in her heart, and she had a vast collection of hummingbirds and raccoons.
Six years ago Gail was diagnosed with cancer and given just two years to live. However, Gail was a fighter, determined to not let this terrible disease get the best of her. She always had a positive attitude, even through all the treatments, and continued to life her life on her terms. These terms included a trip to the Smokey Mountains just a few weeks ago.
Ms. Gail Palen, age 55, died Friday, November 9, 2007. Her family includes her children: Jamie (Sue) Palen, Rita Olsen of Muskegon, Jesse McKay of Door and Jonathon Palen of Spring Lake; former husband Alan Wisniewski of Grand Haven; stepchildren Shannon (Lisa) Wisniewski of Grand Haven, Jason (Erin) Wisbiewski of Holland; grandchildren Cody Presnell, Tyler Palen, Justin Ippen and Amanda, Brooke, Brandon, Jacob and Christina Wisniewski; sisters Cheryl (Patrick) Voss of West Olive, Carol (Gary) Appel of Grand Haven; brother Dale (Sandy) Shaft of Allendale and Grandmother Louise Shaft. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Floyd Shaft, Jr.
At Gails request, her family will announce a special gathering of Gails friends and family to be held in the spring. With nature in bloom and new baby animals making their first appearance, it will be the fitting time to honor her memory.
For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Harbour Humane Society or the American Cancer Society. Please visit Gails personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you may leave a memory or sign the online guest book. Arrangements by Clock Life Story Funeral Home of Grand Haven.