Gail Eileen Robertson

Gail Eileen Robertson, age 83, of Costa Mesa, CA, formerly of Stephen, MN, died August 13, 2025 in The Alpine Care Home in Fountain Valley, CA. Gail died of chronic medical issues with the additional complication of dementia. She passed away peacefully with her daughter, Jennifer at her side.

Gail was born to Carl and Julia Thompson of Stephen, MN. She was born in a house on the North End of Stephen, September 9,1942, the third child of 4 and the only daughter. Gail grew up on Main Street above Carl’s Drug Store with her family and attended school there, graduating with the Class of 1960. She attended Moorhead State Teachers College, now Moorhead State University, and graduated in 1964. She then traveled to Australia for a year, returning to California to be with her Stephen friends, LaNei Knitter Cross and Kathy Kroke Seinfeld, all finding teaching jobs. There she met and married Richard Robertson in 1969 and had one daughter Jennifer, born in 1977.

Gail was a dedicated teacher for over 35 years, substituting often, after retirement. Her field was Special Education and her genuine love for her students brought her much joy. Gail also volunteered for the Costa Mesa Thrift Shop, many hours a week, for years before her health problems.

Gail looked forward to her visits to Stephen, every summer. She participated in the Stephen parades, reunions and celebrations. And she was always so grateful to her dear friends, Dick and Marilyn Hanson for their hospitality and a place to stay, after her parents passed away. Gail, too, was very hospitable to visitors when they would come to vacation in California. She made those first time trips to California memorable to her Minnesota family and friends.

Gail is survived by her daughter, Jennifer, of Westminster, CA; her brothers, Roger Thompson of Apple Valley and Rick (Jean)Thompson of Lakeville, MN; as well as nieces, and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Julia, her brother Robert and his wife, Marlys Thompson, their daughter, Julie and Richard Robertson.

Gails absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. Per her wishes, there will be no funeral service.

Arrangements and care provided by Harbor Lawn-Mt. Olive Memorial Park and Mortuary, Costa Mesa, CA.