Gail Steckman Colella

Gail Colella, 82, died May 25, 2017 with her children and former husband by her side. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio on September 3, 1934 she was raised in New York City. She had twin daughters and son whom she adored. Gail was a kind and loving mother who was later blessed with six grandchildren. Having always dreamed of living in Florida she moved from NJ to Sarasota in 1988. Gail was a multi-talented person with a fantastic memory, a great sense of humor and a quick wit. She was a lover of books, word games, crosswords and a master of trivia. She participated in many causes that would help the oppressed, abused or exploited lead a better life. She also had a special place in her heart for all animals and donated to many organizations that championed a better life for them. She was a devoted member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota, serving two terms as president. The church was an important part of her life where she had many loving friends. Gail and her family spent vacations for 40+ years on Star Island, Isles of Shoals NH. She felt it was her “spirit’s home” where she had many wonderful friends. She is survived by her children, Jane Marmo, Cathryn (Joseph) Foster and Joseph A. Colella, six grandchildren, Christopher and Paige Marmo, Evan and Sarah Foster and Jordan and Jessica Colella and her former husband Joseph Colella, her caregiver throughout her critical illness. She was predeceased by her parents H. Alfred and Hazel Steckman and her sister Mary Krumbein. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota in the fall. Details to be provided in early September at www.wiegandbrothers.com and the obituary section of the Sarasota Herald Tribune.