Gail Rantz, mother, grandmother and friend, died Tuesday, Aug. 5. She was 79 years old.
Born on May 8, 1946, in Yellow Mountain, Ky., Gail was one of 12 children born to Mack and Lula (Fugate) Messer. At a young age, she moved with her family to Shelbyville, where they settled on a farm and laid the foundation for a life filled with love, hard work, and family values.
Gail’s married William “Bill” Rantz, though their love story began with a coin toss gone wrong. Bill lost the toss and ended up on a double date with Gail’s friend instead of Gail herself, but he remained persistent. She gave him a chance, and they married and spent the next 52 years building a life rooted in love and devotion.
Gail stood faithfully beside Bill during his honorable service in the U.S. Navy, through raising their children, and ultimately during his long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s, never leaving his side. Bill preceded her in death.
Gail was a fiercely loyal wife, a nurturing and supportive mother, and a joyful, involved grandmother. She found her true calling in motherhood and considered her role as “Grandma” the greatest blessing of her life.
She is survived by her daughter Kim (Joe) Chamberlin, who cared for Gail during her final years, and by grandchildren: Zach (Jeremiah Cowham) Chamberlin, Haylie (Evan) Eakins, Dominic (Ashley) Bushouse, Matt (Alyssa) Rantz, and Lindsey Rantz. Gail also leaves behind three great-grandchildren: Kinsley, Leighton, and Baylor.
She is also survived by her siblings Walt, Goble, Ishmael, and Bristol, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members,
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, and her son, Mark Rantz.
Her grandchildren treasure memories of summers spent splashing in the pool at Grandma and Grandpa’s house, trips to Lake Michigan, and countless games of cards-especially Cribbage and 3-13. Gail wasn’t just good at cards-she was the reigning champion.
Gail was a dedicated member of Wayland Calvary Church.
In accordance with Gail’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of her life will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes, 120 South Woodhams Street, Plainwell,.
Memorials made in Gail’s memory may be directed to Centrica Care Navigators.
