Gayl Elizabeth Fraser, 83

Gayl Elizabeth Fraser, 83, passed peacefully on July 29, 2022, in Butte, MT surrounded by the love of her family, and with a view of her beloved mountains.

She leaves behind her three sisters Carol (Mike) Kenyon, Annie Roller, and Kathy (Jim) Brown; her four children Mark (Gail) Edwards, Terry Buhr, and Debbie (E.J.) Clark, and Kim Edwards; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and treasured friends.

Gayl was born at Fort Hamilton, NY on July 11, 1939, and was the first and only child of Gaylord and Marian Fraser. She lost her father as he fought in the Philippines during WWII. When her mother later fell in love with and married Charles L. Kimsey, the family grew to include three sisters and one brother (Tad). Gayl and her siblings were raised in the Army and as a result, traveled broadly throughout the United States and beyond as stationed. Through these travels, and later her own exploration, Gayl came to be fiercely curious and passionate about the natural world. In her adult life, she strove to both explore and preserve nature while instilling these values in her children and later, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gayl raised her family in Illinois, upstate New York, and finally Montana – the state that would be her home for the rest of her life. But wherever she was, she was passionate about spending time in nature. She loved to forage for mushrooms, observe wildlife and wildflowers, ride horses in the backcountry, as well as hike, camp, and laugh with loved ones. Gayl was also a talented writer and avid reader, authoring beautiful poetry and ending nearly every day curled up with a good book.

We will each carry our own memories of our sister, mom, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend – thankful for the adventures, love, lessons, and laughs. But for now, back into the Universe, she goes, unencumbered and free.

In accordance with Gayl's wishes, no services will be held save for the private scattering of ashes in the wilds of Montana, surrounded by the love and light of her family.

In lieu of flowers and cards please consider supporting your local animal shelter, or simply get outside in nature - in Gayl's honor.

Please visit http://www.axelsonfuneralhome.com to offer the family condolence or to share a memory of Gayl.

Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Gayl and her family.