Gail L. Mahnke

Gail Lea Mahnke, age 80, of Marshall, Michigan, passed away on her 80th birthday, Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Calhoun County Medical Care Facility in Battle Creek, Michigan after a long and tenacious struggle for wellness. While mentally, emotionally and physically exhausting, Gail met each new adversity and challenge with a never-ending grace and dignity and with an unceasing gratitude for those who assisted her throughout her difficult journey.
Gail was born on March 2, 1944 to Herbert H. and Florence M. (Benesh) Engelbrecht in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. In 1962, she graduated from Washington High School and went onto attend the Accredited School of Beauty Culture in Green Bay, Wisconsin before beginning her career as a beautician and hairdresser in her own home.
In 1966, Gail married Cy Mahnke. The couple settled in Madison, Wisconsin before moving to Battle Creek, Michigan in 1970. With each move, Gail continued her work as a beautician and hairdresser. Gail’s marriage to Cy ended in divorce in 1973.
At that time Gail enrolled in the Criminal Justice program at Kellogg Community College in Battle Creek, Michigan with the intent of becoming a police officer. However, her education led her to the Calhoun County Juvenile Home in Marshall, Michigan. She so enjoyed working with young people, she remained as a care worker and shift supervisor for 20 years, retiring in 1993.
Gail began her third career in 1993 by securing her real estate license and joining the Battle Creek Board of Realtors. Over the next 30 years, she worked for Home Realty, Vista Realty and Troxel Realty. Health problems brought on an earlier-than-anticipated retirement from Troxel realty in 2023.
Over the years, Gail enjoyed the company of cats, dogs, horses and a donkey. Beginning in 1968, Gail was a regular at horse events, showing her beloved Arabian and Quarter Horses at local and regional horse competitions. Gail became the proud owner of a rescued donkey in 1998 continuing until 2023 when her health no longer allowed her to care for her beloved Edward R. Burrow.
Gail was an avid pool player and belonged to The American Pool Players Association for 20 years and the Valley National 8-Ball League Association (VNEA) Pool League Association for over 25 years. In addition, she was a member of the Eagles Lodge and Lion’s Club of Battle Creek and Zion Lutheran Church in Marshall.
Gail was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Douglas, and her infant sister, Sandra. She was also predeceased by Cy Mahnke and her dear friends, Paul Jones and Alec Borden.
She is survived by her loving caretakers Mary Baribeau, a dear friend for over 50 years, and dear friend Cindy Colby Shirk, by longtime friend and colleague, Al Morehart and by the many friends who shared her life’s journey.
Those wishing may make a memorial contribution to a charity of one’s choice in Gail’s name.
A Celebration of Gail’s life will take place at a later date.
Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services 723 US Hwy 27 N Marshall, Michigan 49068. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.