Obituary for Gail Kelly Emmert Gail Kelly Emmert passed away on September 7th, 2018 at the age of 56 after a courageous decades-long battle with multiple sclerosis. Gail was born April 29th, 1962 in Birmingham, Michigan. She was the youngest of two children born to Carl Andrew (Bill) Emmert and Mary Ellen (Nyberg) Emmert.
Gail graduated with highest honors from East Grand Rapids High School in 1980. She was the recipient of several academic scholarships and continued her education at the University of Michigan earning a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science degree in Natural Res and Environment. Gail earned her teaching certification from Eastern Michigan University.
Gail began work on a Ph.D. at the University of Michigan but was lured away by a job offer. Gail married Walter Segieda on October 5th, 1996 and remained married for 7 years. It was an important chapter in her life and helped define Gail moving forward.
Gail’s professional life included conducting biological (marine) research for the University of Michigan and teaching biology at Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor. Gail also worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan as an application developer – creating, testing, and programming applications software. Gail was a passionate conservationist who strongly believed in the protection of natural res and wildlife.
She enjoyed photographing her outdoor adventures. Her photo journals tell the story of travel, exploration, hiking, kayaking, and simply observing the wonder and beauty of the world. Later, as the disease robbed Gail of physical ability, she found new ways to pursue interests.
Her iPad, Kindle, and television helped Gail continue to live her life. Gail used her iPad to convert written words into spoken words – thus giving her speech. Gail subscribed to several wildlife magazines and watched net cams.
Often visitors would find Gail live streaming marine life or the birth of baby eagles. She posted political beliefs and conservation concerns via Facebook. Gail avidly read eBooks and watched CSI shows.
She enjoyed online shopping – keeping visitors busy opening mountains of boxes. She sent eCards always sharing special occasions with those she loved. Music provided Gail with much-needed comfort when the enemy’s shadow got too big.
And chocolate. Gail loved chocolate. Despite the many impossible obstacles life handed Gail, she always found the inner strength and courage to remain optimistic, kind, funny, and live her convictions.
Gail is lovingly remembered by her brother John (Lisa) Emmert, a nephew Alec Emmert, and a niece Hannah Emmert. Gail is also lovingly remembered by her stepmother Lin Emmert, a stepsister Lisa Flahive, and lifelong best friend Sheila Schindler. Gail was preceded in death by her mother Mary Emmert on January 25th, 1988, her father Carl Emmert on September 14th, 2012, and a stepbrother Officer Scott Flahive on December 13, 1994.
When Gail was no longer able to live independently, the caregivers at Sunrise Senior Living of Cascade provided her with around-the-clock care and accommodated her ever-changing physical needs. Thank you Sunrise. Gail’s family would also like to thank Hospice of Michigan for providing Gail with end-of-life physical, emotional, and spiritual care.
We are forever grateful. Lastly, Gail’s family thanks Sheila Schindler. Sheila’s friendship with Gail spanned five decades.
Sheila’s total loyalty and devotion saw Gail through the best and the worst of times. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you Sheila. A private prayer service will be held at the burial site.
Please remember Gail by protecting and appreciating nature. Consider rescuing an animal. Enjoy conversation, laughter, and dinner with family and friends.
Perform simple acts of everyday kindness. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www. sytsemafh.com.
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint”. –Isaiah 40:31 May you walk, run, and soar on eagle’s wings Gail.
You’re finally free. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Gail Kelly Emmert please visit our Sympathy Store. Cemetery Details Lake Forest Cemetery 1304 Lake Ave.
Grand Haven, MI, 49417 www.
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