Obituary: Gail Wright Petela

Gail Wright Petela "Loving Mother" Gail Whittimore (Wright) Petela, age 67, of Salt Lake City, Utah, died Sunday, June 25, 2006, at 2864 South 2300 East in Salt Lake City, Utah. Gail was a devoted wife of 44 years and a loving mother of six children and six grandchildren. She was born in Hartford, CT and graduated from Danbury College with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in 1961. After raising six children, she returned to her passion for teaching and being with children at Vickery Elementary School in Pittsfield, ME for over a decade. After retiring, she moved to Salt Lake City to be closer to her children who lovingly supported her throughout her treatment for cancer. During her time in Salt Lake, Gail was an active member of the Central Christian Church and became a volunteer for the Foster Grandparent Program. Her passions in life were her unconditional love for her children, grandchildren and unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. In her final hours she was surrounded by all six of her children, husband, and family. She continued to count her blessings and reminded us how "all things work together for the good to those who love God and keep his decrees." (Romans 8:28) Mom's final wish for her family and friends is for us to be happy for her that she is going home and that each of us will come to know Jesus personally so that we can meet her there. She is survived by her mother Emily T. Clarke, husband Joseph Petela, daughter Katherine (Matthew) Frankland, son Peter (Claudia) Petela, son John Petela, daughter Susan (Kyle) Hodsdon, son Mark Petela, daughter MaryAnn Petela, brother Jerry (Diana) Wright, brother Tim (Sue) Wright, brother Tony Wright and six grandchildren. The family would like to express our appreciation to the Huntsman Cancer Hospital, physicians, and employees for their compassion and caring for our mom. In lieu of flowers, the family would like any donations to be sent to the Huntsman Cancer Institute. A special tribute to Gail will be held by her family in Somersworth, NH on Saturday July 29th. A separate mass in her honor will be held at a later date in Branford, CT. A request for additional information and condolences may be sent to the family at: shodsdon@sau17.org Condolences can be left in guest book at legacy.com