Gail Ek, 85

Gail Ek died Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at her Kimball home, surrounded by the love of her family, while under the care of hospice. She was 85.

A celebration of Gail’s life will be held from 12-3 p.m., with a Remembrance Service at 1:30 p.m., on Saturday, March 29, at Maine Prairie Township Hall. A private graveside service will take place at Maine Prairie Cemetery.

Gail Jeanne Maki was born June 17, 1939, in Superior, Wis., to George and Linda (Aho) Maki. Gail graduated from Edison High School in Minneapolis before pursuing further education at St. Cloud Technical College. On April 30, 1960, Gail was united in marriage to Clarence Ek in Minneapolis. The newlyweds made their home in Minneapolis. Gail built a successful career at Honeywell, and Target corporate office in Fridley, where she provided invaluable support to the president. In 1975, the Ek family relocated to Kimball where Gail continued working various secretarial jobs, though her most treasured role remained that of a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Gail’s life was rich with love and laughter. She was a member of the Pearl Lake Lake Association. Gail enjoyed gardening, bingo, reading, and pontoon rides on her beloved Pearl Lake brought her immense joy, but nothing delighted her more than spending time with her family and friends.

Gail was preceded in death by her husband Clarence, children Dean and Jean Anne, parents, and parents-in-law Eric and Christina Ek.

She is survived by her daughters Kris (and Arnie) Gruenes of Richmond, and Debbie (and John) Allar of Kimball; her grandchildren Brian (and Kristen), Samantha, Dustin, Zachary (and Kim), Hannah (and Chris), Arnie Jr., Ashley, Andy, Meaghan, and Payton; great-grandchildren Ethan, Nolan, Loretta, Nathan,William, Lillian, Noah, Levi, and one more in June; brother Roland (and MaryAnn) Maki; and nieces, nephews, other family member,s and friends.

Gail will forever remain in our hearts, being a constant reminder of the beauty and kindness of her soul.

Arrangements are entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Kimball.