Gail M. Rego
Gail M. Rego, 75, passed away peacefully in Sullivan, MO on July 15, 2023. Born on September 17, 1947, in Marquette, MI, Gail was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great - grandmother and friend who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate to have known her.
Gail spent her early years in Eben Junction, MI before moving to Florida where she graduated from Lake Worth High in 1965. Throughout her life, Gail held a variety of roles that allowed her to express her caring nature. She was a devoted homemaker for the majority of her life, a dedicated employee at Lowell Manufacturing for a few years, and also worked alongside her children at Six Flags.
One of the most significant chapters of Gail's life began with a letter. Gail's love story with her husband, Frank, began when Frank's aunt Emma, who worked with Gail at a bank, suggested she write to her nephew who was in the Navy. After spending only 11 days together, they knew they were meant for each other and married on February 2, 1967, in Lantana, Florida. Their enduring love story took them from coast to coast, including to Colorado Springs, Denver, Jacksonville, Florida, Mehlville, Pacific, and finally Sullivan.
Gail had an adventurous spirit and took great pleasure in traveling, both locally and across the country. She and Frank visited nearly every Missouri state park and spent many hours walking the trails of Shaw Nature Reserve. Her love for travel also extended to her digital life, where she was an avid viewer of travel creative content on YouTube.
In addition to her love for travel, Gail had a passion for cooking and sports. She relished watching cooking shows and contests and took delight in collecting cookbooks. An ardent sports fan, Gail and Frank were the ever-present supporters at their children and grandchildren's sporting events, traveling as far as Toronto for a soccer tournament or braving cold winter bleachers to share in their family's achievements.
Gail's love for nature was evident in her dedication to keeping the bird feeders filled and identifying birds using an app on her phone. Her love for music was another of her passions, and she enjoyed attending concerts of her favorite performers.
Gail's caring heart extended beyond her family and friends to animals in need. Over the last 15 years, she volunteered with Halo for Animals, organizing adoption and fundraising events, and even helping to name the pets in the pound.
In the end, Gail's life was a testament to the power of love, the joy of adventure, and the importance of family. Her spirit, kindness, and love for life will be remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to have known her.
Gail is survived by her devoted husband, Frank Rego of Sullivan, MO; her three children: Jeff Rego and wife Tricia of Saint Clair, MO, Lori Rego of Sullivan, MO and Bonnie Rego of Titusville, FL; her mother, Vivian Riddle of Sullivan, MO; four grandchildren: Amanda Hemker and husband Todd of Saint Clair, MO, Meghan Rego and significant other Brandon Heskett of Sullivan, MO, Jeremy Rego and wife Shania of Union, MO and Joseph Rego of Saint Clair, MO; two great – grandchildren, Evelyn, River and one on the way; other relatives and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Martin McClintock.
Arrangements for cremation have taken place. A private inurnment will be held at The Missouri State Cemetery – Waynesville.
Friends may send their online condolences to Gail’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
Memorial contributions may be made to HALO or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
All arrangements are under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.