Mary Gayle Fontaine

Gayle is lovingly remembered by son, Lee Stoerzinger; daughter, Tami Gold (Derek); cherished grandchildren, Geraldine, Evan, Amelia, and Kellen; and a great-grandson, Zane. Gayle is also survived by a sister, Lynn Riley; a bonus son, Eric Jaworski; and many beloved nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who meant so much to Gayle.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Dorothy Fontaine, and her beloved Scott Jaworski.

Gayle was born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, and graduated from North St. Paul Senior High School with the class of 1968. She built a career primarily in banking, spending many years at City & County Employees Credit Union. While she was dedicated to her profession, the role she held closest to her heart and the one she would most want to be remembered for was, “Grandma.”

Gayle had an unmatched love for life. She faced more challenges and hardships than most could imagine, yet did so with grace, resilience, and a spirit that never dimmed. Her vibrant smile and bright, welcoming presence could light up any room. If you were fortunate enough to meet Gayle, even just once, she is likely holding a place in your heart.

She found deep joy at the cabin, not just in the place itself, but in what it represented: togetherness, peace, family, friendship, and years of shared memories, celebration, and connection.

Gayle loved Jesus, and her faith was a guiding force throughout her life.

The family would like to express a very special and heartfelt thank you to her care team, Gina Schad, her devoted niece, and Jaime Rippentrop, a cherished friend, for their compassion, support, and the loving care they provided.

Above all, she will be remembered for her love, for her family, for life, and for the moments that bring people together.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 18th from 4-7PM at Wulff Funeral Home in Woodbury, MN. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on May 19th at 11:00 AM at Guardian Angels, Oakdale, MN, with visitation one hour prior, followed by burial at St. Mary Cemetery in North St. Paul.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed in honor of Gayle’s granddaughter, Amelia, and her service to the unhoused and underserved community in Bismarck, North Dakota. Stepping Stone Medical Respite was founded by Sister Idelle Badt, of Annunciation Monastery, where Amelia also resided on scholarship during the final two years of her college education.

https://www.steppingstonemr.org/