Gail Linda Warren

Gail Linda Warren, lovingly known to everyone simply as Gail, was born on August 16, 1945, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to her late parents, Samuel and Dawn Warren. She passed away surrounded by the love of the family she cherished so deeply.

Gail was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend whose greatest joy in life was her family. She loved each member of her family unconditionally and never missed an opportunity to encourage, support and celebrate her children and grandchildren. They were the center of her world, and she would do anything for those she loved.

Known for her warm smile, childlike spirit and intellectual curiosity, Gail was a lifelong learner. She began her undergraduate studies in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota. She later moved to New York City, where she worked as a ticket agent for Northwest Airlines for seven years and traveled extensively. She eventually completed her Bachelor of Health Science in Allied Health at Governors State University in Illinois in 1980 and received a Master of Health Science in 1981. During her career, she received numerous accolades and awards, including a Certificate of Achievement recognizing her "Winter Sauna" heroism – jumping into the ice and snow of Lake Minnetonka, an act she was proud of.

Gail found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. She loved birdwatching, camping, spending time outdoors, dancing, biking, boating, road trips, reading and traveling. Some of her favorite destinations included California, Colorado, London, Scotland and an unforgettable Alaskan cruise. She moved more than 35 times and lived in New York City as well as Nebraska, Illinois, Minnesota, Indiana, California, North Carolina, Florida and Georgia. She loved soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the beauty of nature. In her younger years, she was a proud member of St. Louis Park High School's synchronized swimming team, the Surf Belles. She also had a creative spirit and enjoyed making jewelry, ceramics, sewing and other arts and crafts.

Throughout her career, Gail dedicated herself to helping others. She served as a director and counselor in many addiction treatment programs for more than 16 years. She was recognized for her deep reverence for life, her spirituality and her commitment to living her beliefs. One of the programs she led focused on helping expectant mothers overcome addiction and give their babies a healthy, drug-free start in life. Her compassion and commitment to this work earned her a personal visit from former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who honored Gail for her outstanding service to the Pregnant Women's Program.

One of Gail's favorite chapters in life began unexpectedly when she accepted a position as the receptionist for the Atlanta Falcons. What began as a temporary opportunity became one of the roles she loved most, a position she held for more than 10 years. She treasured the relationships she built with the players, coaches and staff, becoming a caring and familiar presence to everyone who walked through the doors. She especially enjoyed her time during the Dan Reeves era and often spoke fondly of those years.

Gail was also an avid fan of country music, with Dwight Yoakam holding a special place among her favorite performers. One of her favorite memories came during a road trip when she and a friend unexpectedly stumbled onto the filming of one of his movies. They were invited to appear as extras in the film, and during a break in filming, Gail had the opportunity to meet Dwight Yoakam in person. Even more memorable, he arranged for them to appear in a scene with him—an experience she treasured and loved sharing with family and friends for years afterward.

Gail was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Dawn Warren, and by her brother, Jerald Warren.

She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Jennifer Griffith, and her husband, Kevin; her son, Benjamin Stenzel, and his wife, Gwen; her grandchildren, Tyler Stenzel and his wife, Maddy, Jordan Stenzel and his fiancée, EmilleScholl, Logan Griffith, and Christopher Griffith; her brother, Bob Warren, and his wife, Linda; her sister-in-law, Sharalyn (Warren) Glover; her nieces and nephews, Stephen, Stephanie, Doreen, Michael and Zack, along with their families and other extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Gail's kindness, intelligence, adventurous spirit, creativity and unwavering love for her family touched countless lives. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and joyful memories that will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her. She would encourage others to take life one day at a time, be flexible, have an open mind and laugh as much as possible.

Gail wished to be cremated, and her family plans to hold a private remembrance at a later date.

Roswell Funeral Home is honored to serve the Warren family.