Gayle A. (Storlien) Francis

Gayle Alice Francis (Storlien), age 65, passed away on April 28, 2026. She was born on March 22, 1961, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Merlyn “Toby” and Diane Storlien.

Gayle was raised in Cambridge, Minnesota, alongside her brothers, Tom and Tim. She graduated from Cambridge High School and continued her education at St. Cloud State University. She spent many years working in an office setting before finding deep joy in a more personal calling - visiting nursing homes, assisting the elderly with projects, and sharing her creativity through her small business, Grandma Gayle’s Creations.

Gayle was a woman who loved deeply and lived generously. She was known for her fun-loving spirit, especially on her “lucky” casino trips with family and friends, where she insisted on sharing her winnings—no matter how big or small. She cherished traditions, especially the annual family cookie bake, where she was famous for her peanut butter blossoms and for intentionally breaking sugar cookies just to snack on them while decorating. To those closest to her, she’ll always be remembered for ending her days with a simple joy: a bowl of vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate syrup.

Above all, Gayle was an incredibly proud and devoted grandmother to Mahkaela, Jackson, and Tobias. She loved them dearly, and they were the light of her life.

She was preceded in death by her father, Merlyn “Toby” Storlien; her grandparents, Harold and Alice Storlien; and many beloved pets.

Gayle is survived by her loving mother, Diane; her children, Travis (Ciara) and Jenna (Brandon); her brothers, Tom (Marla) and Tim; her cherished grandchildren and cat, Hope.

Gayle loved with her whole heart, and her family and friends will feel her loss forever. Her warmth, generosity, and the memories she created will live on in all who knew her.

Memorial Service 11AM, Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Cambridge Lutheran Church.  Visitation one hour prior to the service.  Private interment at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Condolences at www.carlsonlillemoen.com  Arrangements by Carlson-Lillemoen Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Cambridge. 

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