Mr. Gail Roderick Page

Gail had an adventurous and fulfilling life, always seeking new challenges and accomplishments. From a young age, he displayed a strong sense of responsibility, determination, and the spirit to soar. He excelled in wrestling during his school years and, as far as we know, his name still remains on the gym wall as a testament to his skill and dedication. After graduating from high school, he made Tucson, Arizona his home.

Gail’s journey took him through various professions and experiences. He learned cabinet making from his stepfather. He was a hunting guide in the Wrangell Mountains in Alaska, where he had an exhilarating encounter with a grizzly bear. Gail served in the United States Army and the National Guard for four years and received an Honorable Discharge. In 1966, he became a firefighter for the Tucson Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of Captain in 1973. With 23 years of service, he retired in 1989. Gail’s commitment to public service and his community was unwavering.

In addition to his professional achievements, Gail was a devoted family man. He married and had a daughter, Susan. Gail shared his passion for archery with his daughter, and together they competed in tournaments across the United States. Their dedication and skill earned Susan a four-year scholarship to college. In 1992, Gail remarried and continued his archery competitions, this time getting his wife involved. He achieved remarkable success, with two Silver Medals at the World Police Fire Games and a Gold Medal at the 1997 Olympics U.S. National Senior Sports Classic VI. During those years, he was considered the number one finger shooter in the state of Arizona.

Gail had a deep love for dogs and cherished the companionship they brought into his life. He spoiled every dog he had, and together with his wife, they showed Shih Tzu in AKC Conformation show rings throughout the Southwest and California. Gail’s dedication, handling and care, contributed to the Championship of seven dogs over 12 years of showing.

Despite his numerous achievements, Gail always found time to help others. He was known for his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need. Gail was a loving and supportive husband to his wife, Carol, and a devoted father to his daughter, Susan. His family considered themselves very blessed to have known and loved him.

Gail’s military service in the United States Army and the National Guard for four years was an important part of his life. His dedication, discipline, and commitment to serving his country were commendable.

He enjoyed various sporting activities throughout his life, including wrestling, bowling, golfing, hunting, fishing, archery, and dog showing. He found solace and joy in these activities, which allowed him to express his competitive spirit and love for the outdoors.

A visitation will be held on April 25, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at East Lawn Palms Mortuary & Cemetery, located at 5801 Grant Road in Tucson. The funeral services will be held in the Chapel at East Lawn on the following day, April 26, at 12:30 p.m. The family kindly requests, bringing a memory to the service on Saturday to share, honoring Gail’s love for creating lasting memories.

In lieu of flowers, donation to * The Last Alarm Foundation, Inc., [email protected], 520-305-1263, * Tucson Firefighter Memorial at Station 1 brick garden, tucsonfirememorial.org, or the * Humane Society of Southern Arizona, hssaz.org would be welcomed.

Gail will be deeply missed by his wife, Carol Page; daughter, Susan (Jon) Petersen; siblings, Vernon (Clara) Page, Kurt (Barbara) Page, Stan Page, Jimmy Hansen, Howard (Christi) Hansen, David Hansen; grandchildren, Jon Alex Petersen and Alyssa Petersen; his forever hunting buddies; and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of determination, kindness, and love will continue to inspire those he touched.