Obituary: Gail Swartz-Koski

As received from the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel:

Gail Swartz-Koski, age 64 of Zeba, MI entered eternal rest on Wednesday, May 15th at home with her loved ones by her side. She was born in L’Anse, MI on February 1, 1960 to the late Ellen (Fisher) and Wayne Swartz.

Throughout her life, Gail had worked numerous jobs. Her titles included housekeeper, security officer, mail courier, and bartender. She often recalled many events and stories about her beloved patrons while working at the “Side Track Bar”.

Aside from her employment, the title she most treasured was “Mother”. She was very loving and proud of her children. For those who lived in or around the “Old Projects”, now known as Jondreau and Cardinal Circles, the distance at which her “angelic” calls to her children to come home could be heard are legendary. Gail enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Her hobbies included writing, coloring, knitting, playing guitar, and picking just about every fruit, veggie, and berry in season. Blueberry picking with her mother and children was one of her most fond memories she would share.

Her absence will leave a hole in the hearts of her husband Harold “Butch” Koski, sons Gary (Peggy) Loonsfoot, Gregory (Lindsey) Loonsfoot, Gavin (Janelle) Loonsfoot, Lawrence Dowd Jr, April Dowd, step-children Treasure Knipp, Brandi Stratton, Jessica Lane, Brandon Cote, and Amber & Stefanne Carlisle. Her siblings Wayne, David, Melody, Leslie, Fred Swartz, along with her brother and sister in-law Richard Holappa and Carle Jean Koski, respectively, as well as her numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Preceding her in death are her parents Ellen (Fisher) and Wayne Swartz, sister Stephanie Swartz, Daughter in-law Lindsey Loonsfoot (Gregory), Father in-law Wayne Koski, Mother in-law Helen Lyndall, Brother in-law Wayne “Tinker” Koski, and sister in-law Cheryl “Horse” Suojanen.

In accordance with Gail’s final wishes, a celebration of her life will be held in her honor following the spreading of her ashes, which will be announced at a later date.

An account has been set up in Gail’s honor at Superior National Bank, L’Anse for monetary donations to help offset funeral costs.

Gail’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.reidfuneralservicechapel.com

Reid Funeral Service and Chapel has been tasked with the funerary services.