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Kaftan, 96, Fargo, formerly LaMoure, ND, died Thursday, August 23, 2012, at Eventide Transitional Care Facility, Moorhead, MN. Gayle was born to Roy and Jessie (Fordney) Nelson, in Grand Forks, ND, on September 20, 1915.
Gayle was raised in Orr, North Dakota, and graduated from Grand Forks Central High School. She attended college at the University of North Dakota and Iowa State University, graduating from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition, and a minor in Chemistry.
Gayle was married to George Kaftan for 69 years and together they raised three daughters. They were active citizens of LaMoure, North Dakota, for most of their lives. Gayle hosted many community events while George was mayor of LaMoure and president of the North Dakota League of Cities. Gayle played piano and organ for events at the First Presbyterian Church, where she was a member and organist for over 35 years. She also played the piano for The Sing-Alongs for their enjoyment and hers. She was an active member of P.E.O. and the Order of the Eastern Star. She participated in many of the activities of the El Zagal Shriners, of which George was a member for over 50 years.
Gayle was highly-skilled at cooking, sewing and embroidery. While her daughters were growing up, she sewed their clothing and many times made matching outfits for their dolls. Gayle traveled extensively with George, visiting every continent of the world at least once. She loved good books, crossword puzzles, and telling and hearing good jokes.
Gayle and George moved from their beloved home of 57 years to Rosewood Court Assisted Living just a block away. After George’s death, Gayle later moved to Edgewood Vista in Fargo, where she lived until entering Eventide.
Gayle is survived by three daughters, Sharon (Burt) Oien, Mesa, AZ, Joann (Tom) Colville, Fargo, ND, and Georgene (Doug) Nesheim, Fargo, ND; two grandchildren, Mike Oien, Lewisville, TX, and Jeff Colville, Maple Grove, MN; and three great-grandchildren, Jake Oien, Colin Colville, and Brittney Gonzales. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and two brothers.
The family would like to thank the staff of Edgewood Vista and Eventide for the care provided to Gayle.
A celebration of Gayle’s life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, LaMoure, ND, on Monday, August 27, 2012, at 2:00 p.m., following viewing at 1:00 at the church. A private family burial will follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorials would be welcome for Shriners Hospitals for Children. Condolences may be sent to the family in care of Sharon Oien, 7832 E. Ebola Ave., Mesa, AZ, 85208. Online guestbook may be signed at www.dahlstromfuneralhome.com