It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mom and GiGi, Gail Lappe (Mikalauskas), who left us on August 17, 2024, in Frankfort, Michigan at the age of 77. Born on February 9, 1947, in Chicago, Gail was a cherished mother, grandmother and friend. She was married to Edward Mikalauskas (1946-1980) and had two daughters, Beth and Katie. She was a single mother who worked tirelessly until she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 65. Even in the hardest of times she was always positive. She had a special gift of always making people feel special and loved even in her darkest hours.

She moved from Palos Heights, Illinois to Interlochen, Michigan in 1988, owned and operated Lake n Pines Lodge and worked in banking and healthcare in Traverse City and Benzonia. She retired and moved to Honor, Michigan and enjoyed movies, the casino, her tablet, a good glass of red wine, long drives along the lake and visiting her daughters and four grandchildren in Chicago and Texas.

She is survived by her daughters Beth and Katie, sons-in-law’s Ian and Mike, and her four grandchildren: Chloe, Jonathan, Jackson and Ryan, who will all remember her with love and gratitude.

A private memorial service will be held where family and friends will gather to celebrate her life and honor her memory. We are grateful for the time we had with our mom, aka GiGi, and will forever cherish the memories and life lessons she taught us. Her love and spirit will remain with us always. 

Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.