Gail Marie (Smith) Thomason

KALISPELL, Mont. - Gail Marie (Smith) Thomason died Aug. 27, 2021, in Kalispell.

Gail Marie was born Oct. 20, 1928, in Eugene, Oregon to Ralph and Hester Smith. She joined sisters; Eva and Stella and brothers; Alvin and Delmar. She met the light of her life in high school, and on May 9, 1947, she married Clay Thomason. They lived in Eugene until 1959 when they moved their family to Kalispell. They were married for more than 70 years.

She is survived by her children: Connie Wroblewski of Kalispell, Cathy Windsheimer of Portland, Oregon, Dick Thomason of Ironwood, Michigan, and Tom Landwehr of Spokane, Washington. She took special joy in the marriages of each of her children. The arrival of each of her nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren was cause for celebration each and every time!

Gail was quite the fashionista. She loved new styles and was never without her lipstick. She always had her hair done and was up for a party any time whether it was a birthday, anniversary, or someone coming for a visit.

Her life, like a painting, was a constantly changing canvas. Her suitcase was always packed so she could accompany Clay wherever his work took him. She made homes for her family in Eugene; Kalispell; Whitehall, New York; Bessemer, Michigan; and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. There has never been a more welcoming hostess no matter where she was.

Gail traveled the world and loved every moment. She co-piloted their Cessna 180 and 310 as they went to many different countries. She particularly enjoyed all the time she spent in Panama City, Panama. She took pleasure in cruising and trips with friends and family. The stories she could tell brought smiles to all she shared them with. The photos from their travels showed a woman enjoying the many cultures she was able to experience. She took advantage of every opportunity to learn about the world.

While travel was a huge piece in Gail's life, Ashley Lake was her happy place. She built a lovely home there and enjoyed all the seasons of life in Montana. As always, she welcomed and encouraged visits there so she could share the beauty she so appreciated.

Gail was very excited when computers became available to her. Her family lived in many different places and computers allowed her to communicate with her growing family. She could be found every morning checking her email for news and photos from friends and family. It brought her great joy.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clay; son-in-law, Allan Wroblewski; and grandson, Jacob Sutton.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to The Footsteps Program at The Springs in Whitefish, Montana, at The Springs at Whitefish, Attn: Footsteps Memory Program, 1001 River Lakes Parkway, Whitefish, MT 59937.