Gail Ann Flaten

Gail Ann Flaten, 63, of Elk River, MN and Swift Falls, MN, passed away on March 21, 2023, following months of struggle with progressive pulmonary fibrosis.  Gail died in home hospice care, surrounded by family. Zniewski Funeral Home of Benson is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Gail is survived and deeply missed by her husband, Gary Flaten, her daughter Kirsten (Michael) Tangen, son Erik (Bre) Flaten, son Randy Flaten; her grandchildren Erianna, Brik, Bas, Aurora, and Bjorn; her sisters Holly Henderson and Laurie Gunstrom, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Gail is preceded in death by her mother, Gladyne Michels, step-mother, Dorothy Michels, father, Douglas Michels and father-in-law Vernon Flaten.

Gail grew up in Champlin, Minnesota and graduated from Anoka High School.  She worked for 35+ years at Timesavers, Inc doing technical writing, secretarial and administrative work.  She was a beloved wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother.  Gail and Gary were married for 42 loving years.  Gail enjoyed gardening, spending time outside, playing with her kids and grandkids, working on her lake place, boating, and fishing with Gary, and spending time with the family.  She had recently retired and was settling into her retirement/lake home near Swift Falls. Gail was loving, kind, strong, and compassionate, and will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life is being planned for Gail, date to be announced.