Gayle Lyn Kofoed, 68, Owatonna
Gayle Lyn Kofoed, age 68, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2024, at her home in Owatonna, MN, surrounded by family.
Gayle was born on June 20, 1956, in Minneapolis, MN, to Albert and Barbara (Pacey) Saari. Gayle was a 1974 graduate of Pine City High School, Pine City, MN, and she later attended college at RCTC in Rochester, MN. Gayle married Myles Brogren on June 29, 1974, and together they had 3 children. Although they entered the marriage with the best of intentions, it was less permanent than expected. After divorcing, both went on to re-marry. Gayle later married David Kofoed on September 19, 1992. Gayle and David built a life together in Owatonna, enjoying many years making memories with family and friends.
Early on, Gayle waitressed and assisted where needed in the family restaurant, The Pizza Pub, as well as worked at Lee’s Pro Shop in Pine City. Later, Gayle was fortunate enough to enjoy many years as a homemaker, spending most of those years taking care of her grandkids, and great-grand kids, making many cherished memories along the way. Gayle enjoyed many hobbies, including gardening, taking road trips/sight-seeing, photography, music and dancing, softball, volleyball, bonfires with family and friends, and simply being outdoors enjoying nature. When it comes to sports, Gayle was one of the biggest fans of the Minnesota Twins! Gayle also enjoyed a good game of pool, often playing and practicing for several hours most evenings in “Gayle’s Pool Room”. Through years of dedication to the game, she proudly earned the rank of Women’s Master.
Gayle is survived by her father, Albert Saari of Pine City, MN; husband, David Kofoed of Owatonna, MN; children: Carrie (Tony) Renchin of Faribault, MN, Keith (Michelle) Brogren of Poulsbo, WA, and Micheal (Amanda) Brogren of Stockton, CA; grandchildren: Jason Brogren, Dillon Ripka, Brooklyn Renchin, Riley Renchin, Kaleb Brogren, Jayden Brogren, Joshua Miller, Sarah Jordan, Cristian Brogren, Terra Brogren, RaeAnn Brogren, Guadalupe (Cecy) Sanchez, Andres (Alex) Sanchez, and Adela Sanchez; 15 great-grandchildren (and more on the way!); sisters: Susan Scott, Peggie (Joe) Kunze, and Terri Mount; brother, Craig (Kathy) Saari; and many wonderful in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Gayle was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Saari; stepmother, Mary Lou Saari; and brother-in-law, Mike Scott.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to Ecumen Hospice for the wonderful care provided during her transition.
Visitation will be held from Noon – 2:00 PM Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at St. John Lutheran Church (1301 Lincoln Ave, Owatonna). Funeral Service will follow immediately after the visitation. Interment will be at St. John Cemetery, Owatonna. A light meal and refreshments will be served following the graveside service.
For more information or to leave an online message of condolence, go to www.megercares.com