Gayle (Dean) Gatz - Obituary

The Lord welcomed our beloved wife, mom and sister Gayle M. Gatz into His arms peacefully at her home in Estero, FL on September, 26, 2023.  Gayle was born in Youngstown, OH on October 19, 1962 to Dr. Joseph O. Dean II M.D. and JoAnne Seiter Dean, both deceased.  She was raised in Peoria, IL and went to Richwoods High School and then to the Illinois State University, where she graduated with a degree in Social Work.  She worked with juvenile detention youth, as well as nursing home and hospital patients.  She was married to Michael C. Gatz on March 21, 1992 at Westminster Presbyterian Church.  They have three children, Trevor, Keenan and Sierra whom all attended IVC High School.  Surviving her are brothers; Joseph (Mike) O. Dean III of Roseville, CA; Dr. Scott Dean M.D. of Panama City, FL; Martin S. Dean of Manikin-Sabot, VA.  She has numerous nieces and nephews.  

Arrangements for an open house Celebration of Life have been scheduled for Sunday, November 12th from 1:00-4:00 at Northminster Presbyterian Church located at 10720 Knoxville Ave., Peoria IL 61615. A brief presentation will be at 2:30 PM.

Gayle was a passionate supporter of various Christian ministries throughout the world.  In-lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to benefit abused children in India through the Hope Charities organization at www.hopepartners.org/donate/