Gayl Elizabeth Fraser, 83, passed peacefully on July 29, 2022 in Butte, MT surrounded by the love of her family, and with a view of her beloved mountains.
She leaves behind her three sisters Carol (Mike) Kenyon, Annie Roller, and Kathy (Jim) Brown; her four children Mark (Gail) Edwards, Terry Buhr, Debbie (E.J.) Clark, and Kim Edwards; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and treasured friends.
Gayl was born at Fort Hamilton, NY on July 11,1939 and was the first and only child of Gaylord and Marian Fraser. She lost her father as he fought in the Philippines during WWII. When her mother later fell in love with and married Charles L. Kimsey, the family grew to include three sisters and one brother (Tad). Gayl and her siblings were raised in the Army and as a result, traveled broadly throughout the United States and beyond as stationed. Through these travels, and later her own exploration, Gayl came to be fiercely curious and passionate about the natural world. In her adult life she strove to both explore and preserve nature, while instilling these values in her children and later, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Gayl raised her family in Illinois, upstate New York, and finally Montana – the state that would be her home for the rest of her life. But wherever she was, she was passionate about spending time in nature. She loved to forage for mushrooms, observe wildlife and wildflowers, ride horses in the backcountry, as well as hike, camp, and laugh with loved ones. Gayl was also a talented writer and avid reader, authoring beautiful poetry and ending nearly every day curled up with a good book.
We will each carry our own memories of our sister, mom, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend – thankful for the adventures, love, lessons, and laughs. But for now, back into the Universe she goes, unencumbered and free.
In accordance with Gayl’s wishes, no services will be held save for the private scattering of ashes in the wilds of Montana, surrounded by the love and light of her family.
In lieu of flowers and cards please consider supporting your local animal shelter, or simply get outside in nature – in Gayl’s honor.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Gayl.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Gayl and her family.
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Suellen Oberstaller says
I will always cherish memories of your Mom. We shared
Such significant years..Suellen
Blake Edwards says
I have often thought fondly of Aunt Gayl over the years and the fun times staying with her and my cousins during the Illinois summers. She was a great person and the world is a little less without her in it.
Michele Grabbe says
What a beautiful words to honor a beautiful soul. I see where Debbie and Mystera get their deep love of nature. Holding everyone close as you have lost an amazing matriarch.
Geri Grose says
My sympathies to Gayl’s family. Although I never met her in person, I enjoyed our many phone conversations while she was traveling to help with her mom. It was always a good day when we talked.
Whitehall Medical Clinic says
Thinking of your family as you remember the love, as you mourn the loss, as you celebrate the life of Gayl. With Deepest Sympathy, The Providers and Staff at Whitehall Medical Climic