SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Gail Whittemore (Wright) Patella, 67, died Sunday, June 25, 2006, at 2864 South 2300 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. Gail was a devoted wife for 44 years and a loving mother of six children and six grandchildren. She was born in Hartford, Conn., 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 of Vickery Elementary School in Pittsfield for more than a decade. She retired and 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 City, 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 and grandchildren, and her 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 was for us to be happy for her that she was going home, and that each of us will come to know Jesus personally so that we could meet her there. She is survived by her mother, Emily T. Clarke; husband, Joseph Petela; daughter, Katherine and her husband, Matthew Frankland; son, Peter and his wife, Claudia Petela; son John Petela; daughter, Susan and her husband, Kyle Hodsdon; son Mark Petela; daughter, MaryAnn Petela; brothers, Jerry and his wife, Diana Wright; brother, Tim and his wife, Sue Wright; brother Tony Wright; 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 mother. 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 Saturday July 29, by her family in Somersworth, N.H. A separate Mass in her honor will be held at a later date in Branford, Conn. For additional information, RSVP or condolences contact Sue at shodsdon@sau17.org
GAIL WHITTEMORE (WRIGHT) PETELA
