Gayle Stafford, 85, Minot, ND, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2020, in a Minot hospital.  Gayle Farris Engen was born August 10, 1934, the daughter of Otto and Eunice (Farris) Engen, in Tagus, ND. She was raised and educated in Minot and later attended college at NDSU in Fargo, ND.      Gayle was once married to Phillip DuPuis. From this union five children were born. The couple would later divorce.  Gayle later married her high school sweetheart and love of her life, Robert “Bob” Stafford on January 28, 1976. They made their home in Minot. Bob passed away on November 30, 2018 following 42 years of marriage.  On weekends, Bob and Gayle enjoyed fishing together in Van Hook, ND. They spent their winters in Gold Canyon, AZ. Gayle’s other hobbies included needlepoint work, knitting and playing bingo.  Gayle was well known for her straightforward truthfulness. She never minced words and would always give it to you straight. She was also comically known for wearing gold and diamond encrusted necklaces spouting expletives. Although Gayle is remembered for her ornery frankness, she had a heart of gold and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.  Surviving family includes: Children, Kerry DuPuis, Gold Canyon, AZ, Blaine DuPuis, Minnetonka, MN, Brigitte (Dan) Funk, Sheridan, WY, Matthew DuPuis, Minot and Brian DuPuis, Williston; step-children, Ronald (Kerry) Stafford, Minot and Deborah (Timothy) Hunter, Douglas Bay; 7 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; sister, Iris Eckmann, Minot; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Gayle was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bob Stafford; and sister, Avis Feury. Memorial Service: A private family service will be held at a later date.  In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Souris Valley Animal Shelter or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.