In Loving Memory of Gayle Ann Wellenstein

Gayle Ann Wellenstein, of Port Washington, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, October 23rd, following a courageous 18-year battle with cancer. She was 77 years old.

Born in Port Washington on June 28, 1947, to Robert and Violet (nee Gans) Lindner, Gayle's life was one filled with love, family, and dedication. After graduating from Port Washington High School with the class of 1965, Gayle found her lifelong partner in Robert Wellenstein. They were united in marriage on November 30, 1968, and together created a beautiful family with four children. Gayle devoted herself to her career at Columbia St. Mary's Hospital, where she worked tirelessly as an administrative assistant for nearly 50 years. Her commitment and loyalty were truly commendable.

Outside of work, Gayle was known for her generous spirit, often found shopping for loved ones rather than herself. She cherished the moments spent socializing, sharing dinners with friends, and traveling to visit her family in California. Yet, above all, her greatest joy came from her role as a grandmother. Whether cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events, engaging them in spirited UNO games, or enjoying family dinners together, she was their unwavering supporter and biggest cheerleader.

Gayle leaves behind her loving children: Jeffrey (Jennifer) Wellenstein of California, Jason (Leeann) Wellenstein of Port Washington, Jaymee (Aaron) Richards of Fredonia, and Christopher (Melissa) Wellenstein of Port Washington. She was a proud grandmother to Kole Wellenstein, Logan and Mayah Richards, Addison and Austin Wellenstein, and Oliver and Lucy Wellenstein. She is further survived by other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband Robert Wellenstein, her parents Robert and Violet Lindner, and her brother Gary Lindner.

A service honoring Gayle will be held at Eernisse Funeral Home, located at 1600 W. Grand Ave. Port Washington, on Friday, November 8, 2024, at 6:30 PM. Pastor Brandon Lemons will preside over the service.

The family will welcome visitors prior to the service from 4:30 – 6:30 PM at the Funeral Home.

Gayle will be laid to rest next to her husband Robert at St. Mary's Cemetery in Port Washington.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Wisconsin Humane Society Ozaukee Campus, the American Cancer Society, or St. Luke's Medical Center Transplant Program.

Gayle's legacy of love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Everyone deserves to have a "Grandma Gayle," and she will be dearly missed.

The Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington is honored to serve the Wellenstein family. Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com