Gayle Irene Sorenson

Our beloved Gayle, the glue that held our family together, passed away on October 20, 2023. Gayle Irene Sorenson left us to find peace. She left this world with her most loyal companions, Carlie and Sage by her side.

Gayle was born on December 29, 1970 to Ned and Shirlene Sorenson. She was the  first child and best big sister to Sarah, Emilee, Heather and David. She was everything to her family. There aren’t words to describe how much she is missed. She was our biggest defender, our loudest cheerleader and dearest friend. She holds the title for being the worlds best photo bomber.

As the first child and also first grandchild on both sides of the family, you can imagine the pure joy that came when she made her entrance. That joy was a common theme for anyone who were privileged enough to meet her.

In her youth, her favorite days were spent hunting and fishing with grandpa Garcia. Many catfish were caught by the two of them. She was his #1. She also shared a very special bond with grandma Garcia.

Gayle was born to be a protector. From an early age she rooted for the under-dog. This became a theme in her life. Many stray animals were carried home by our Gayle. She held no prejudice and all were welcome.

Gayle was a gifted athlete and played volleyball, basketball, softball  and held the state record in shot-put and discus for many years. Gayle always made sure everyone on the team was included. Despite her many accomplishments, her heart is the one we are the most proud of.

Gayle had many talents throughout her life. She was an accomplished pianist, played the banjo, excellent cook and loved food storage and canning. She blessed her sisters with “beach benches” that we will forever treasure. Beekeeping was another hobby she had. She enjoyed this passion with her dear friend Lisa. 

Gayle did life on her terms. She passed up a full ride scholarship to West Point to go to Snow College with friends. Our sweet Gayle was the truest example of what a loyal friend looks like.

During college, Gayle began working summers as a wildland firefighter with the BLM. The summer job turned into her passion and she spent many years working for both BLM and Forest Service, and eventually retired as the Fire Management Officer.

In 1993, Gayle met Wende Wilding while fighting fire for the Bureau of Land Management. On September 11, 2013 they were married in San Francisco, California and have had thirty amazing years together. After retiring, the two of them enjoyed lots of camping, fishing and traveling. Most recently they enjoyed an amazing trip along with their beloved girls Carlie and Sage.

To know Gayle was to love her. She had the best sense of humor and brightened every room she walked into. Her laugh was remarkable. She never missed an opportunity to dance when her favorite song came on.

Gayle’s heart was the biggest of them all. No one in need went without, when Gayle was around. The lives she blessed with her generous heart cannot be numbered. 

Gayle will be missed dearly by her nieces and nephews. She was so proud to be the favorite aunt. She was so proud of each of them. 

Gayle, you will never be forgotten. You are worthy. You are loved. You are perfect. You are missed.

Gayle was greeted in heaven by both sets of her grandparents, many of her beloved fur babies, and most importantly her Savior.

Gayle is survived by her parents Ned and Shirlene Sorenson, her wife Wende Wilding, siblings Sarah (Rhett) Kimball, Emilee (Boyd) Hatch, Heather (Jaren) Anderson, and David (Jessica) Sorenson.

A celebration of Gayle’s life will be held on October 28, 2023 at 11:00 am. A viewing will be held on Friday, October 27, 2023 from 6-8 pm and Saturday October 28, 2023 from 9-10:30 with funeral to follow at the Centerfield LDS Chapel - 230 South Main Street, Centerfield, Ut. Interment at the Centerfield Cemetery. Online condolences at rasmussenmortuary.com

Gayle loved everything in life except wearing a dress. In her honor, please feel free to join our family in casual attire to her services.

In Honor of Gayle, donations can be made to the Wildland Firefighters Foundation.

Recordings are available for 60 days from date of Services.

To Watch Recorded Funeral Service, Click Here.

To Watch Recorded Graveside Service, Click Here.