Gail L. Winter

Gail Helen (Larkin) Winter, age 75, died on Monday, June 19, 2023 at her home in Two Rivers, Wisconsin.

She was born to Norman and Beatrice Larkin on September 14, 1947 in Black River Falls, Wisconsin.  She graduated from BRF High School in 1965 and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1970.  She married J. Steve Winter in Black River Falls on August 17, 1974. Steve preceded her in death July 27, 2016.  She was employed in the Manitowoc Public School District for 25 years before Multiple Sclerosis mandated her retirement.

Gail was destined to become a teacher.  As a child, she loved playing ‘school’ with her many dolls as students.  She eventually became the most sought after babysitter for the neighborhood children.  Her musical talents led to involvement in band, choirs, and theater in high school.  She and husband Steve

attended all Badger football home games and many bowl games held around the country.  Steve’s interest in the culinary arts led them to fine restaurants around Wisconsin and any other community they happened to be visiting.

Gail lived with progressive Multiple Sclerosis for over 40 years.  She eventually became entirely dependent upon her faithful caretakers.  Her family is extremely grateful for the love and care given to her by Raneatha, LaTeecia, Narissa, Mystalynn, Cindy, Tammy, Lindsey, Nadia, Jessica, Shante, Shannon, La’Nitra, and Elena.

Gail is survived by her sister Nancy Schaaf and husband John of Eau Claire, sister Janet Harvey of Menomonie, brother John Larkin and wife Sarah of Black River Falls, niece Sara Jappinen of Oconomowoc, niece Hannah Roelse of Birnamwood, nephews Daniel Larkin and Joseph Larkin of Black River Falls, and brother-in-law Roger Winter of Milwaukee.  She was preceded in death by her husband J. Steve Winter and her nephew Mark Schaaf of Minneapolis.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 30, 2023 at Calvary Lutheran Church, 1921 Adams Street, Two Rivers. Pastor Heather Yerion-Keck will preside at the service.

The family will greet relatives and friends at Calvary Church, Friday morning from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m.

Memorials may be given to the MS Society of Wisconsin or Calvary Lutheran Church of Two Rivers.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.dejamartin.com.

Deja & Martin Funeral Chapels of Two Rivers is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.