Gayle M. Perra, age 81, of East Bethel died November 3, 2023 at home. Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 11th at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 19921 Nightingale St NW, Oak Grove. A visitation will be held one hour prior at the church. Interment will be in the church cemetery.
Gayle Marie Perra was born February 1, 1942 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Robert and Lorraine (Bjorklund) Bernhardt. She was raised in Minneapolis and graduated from Patrick Henry High School in 1960.
On October 21, 1961, she married the love of her life, Wilfred (Will) Perra, Jr. They were high school sweethearts and began seeing each other at the age of 15 after she met Will playing pinball at the local bowling alley. In accordance with their love for the outdoors, many were often surprised at hearing that instead of a traditional honeymoon vacation, they decided to go duck hunting to celebrate! They made their home in a few different locations in central Minnesota before ultimately making their home in East Bethel. Gayle and Will were blessed with two children, Christine and Steven, whom they loved dearly.
Gayle was a hard worker and maintained a very active life over the years. She worked in various places, most memorably within the family business, Will and Steve’s Sanitation. Outside of work, Gayle also enjoyed volunteering and being an active member at St. Patrick Catholic Church, along with Will. Other hobbies Gayle enjoyed are hunting, fishing, reading, camping, and in the last few years, attending Friday night dinners (and enjoying her favorite drink, a Colorado Bulldog!) at the Hidden Haven. Additionally, Gayle was humorously given the title of “The Snake Slayer” in recent years (if you would like to know the back story to this, feel free to ask one of her family members – they would be happy to tell you!). Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren who meant the world to her!
Gayle passed away November 3, 2023 at home surrounded by her family at the age of 81 years, 9 months, and 2 days. Gayle is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Will; sister, Janis Otterman; brother-in-law, Carol Keesler; and granddaughter-in-law, Shannon Wisen.
Gayle will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Christine (Jeffrey) Wisen; son, Steven (Shelley) Perra; grandchildren, Caylee (Tanner), Collin, Aaron, Joseph, Felicia (Nick), Nicholas, and Michael; great-grandchildren, Memphis, Kipling, and Greyson; sister, Kay Keesler; and by many other relatives and friends.
On behalf of the family, we want to thank everyone for their love and support during this difficult time.
I am sorry to hear the passing of Gayle, my cousin. The last time I was able to see Will and Gayle was at the North High School reunion some years ago. We had a nice visit and it was fun to see them in person. I live in California and will not be able to attend in person. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Love and prayer’s, Virginia (Ginger) Kennedy
I worked for Gayle and Will thirty plus years ago. I just loved working with Gayle in the office. We had so many deep and thoughtful conversations. She was a wonderfulfamilies.
I am unable to attend the funeral due to another commitment but my thoughts and prayers are with Chris, Steve and their familes.
Thoughts and prayers being sent your way