Gail M Stephens

life story

A loving mother & grandmother; a kind & caring person to all.

Larry & Gail loved their family! Two daughters, four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren (pictured above)!

Gail Margaret (Folken) Stephens

Born July 7, 1941; passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025.

Gail was born in Elbow Lake, MN. She was the beloved daughter of Waldemar (Walt) Folken & Ione (Rugroden) Folken. She was a proud graduate of Elbow Lake High School.

On December 23, 1961, Gail married Larry Stephens. They shared 63 wonderful years of marriage together.

Gail began her career as a beautician and worked various jobs. She found her long-term role at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of MN, where she remained until her retirement. She was a well-respected and dearly beloved colleague. She was known for her kindness and formed lifelong friendships with many of her coworkers.

Gail had a deep love for travel, with Florida being her favorite destination. She cherished the ocean, enjoyed gardening, baking (especially her famous sugar cookies), and spending time with her family - particularly during the holidays and other special times together.

She is survived by her daughters, Lynn Stephens-Benson (Cory) and Missy Stephens; grandchildren, Melissa Nelson (Mike), Samantha McClure (Jake Miller), Kristina Buechner (Brian), and Jacob Zupon; and great-grandchildren, Dominic, Ivy, Aubrey, Fiona, Cash, Patrick, and Madelynn. She also laves behind loving sister- and brother-in-laws, and many nieces and nephews.

Gail's warmth, humor, and love for family will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She is now reunited with her dear husband Larry, together again in peace.

A memorial service will be planned at a later date; details will be given.