Gaile Collum

Judith "Gaile" Collum, 71, of Marshalltown, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on August 27th, 2014. Gaile was born in Marshalltown, Iowa on September 8th, 1942 to her parents Robert and Marine (Bakker) Betts. She enjoyed remembering her early years in East Marshalltown and has fond memories of attending the Grace Evangelical United Brethren Church. She graduated from Marshalltown Senior high school in 1960. Gaile worked as a Surgical Technician at Deaconess Hospital then went on to work for Marshalltown Instruments until it closed. Then in 1982, she began working at Lennox International which she enjoyed until her retirement in 2008. She was also a proud 40 year U.A.W. member who cared deeply about co-workers, family and friends. Gaile married her beloved husband, Lawrence "Larry" Collum on December 5th, 1975. They enjoyed spending time together, remodeling their home and keeping up with current technology and trends. As Gaile's illness developed, it was their love that triumphed as Larry generously cared for her daily until her death with the assistance of Iowa River Hospice. She was extremely gifted in so many ways, but it was her family values and loving attitude that will stay with us all forever. We all treasure the special gifts and wonderful care Gaile put into every family gathering, the holidays & special events, as well as the unique way she made every conversation feel personal and passionate. Gaile was preceded in death by her Mother and Father and older brother Russell C. Betts. She is survived by her husband Larry Collum of Marshalltown; daughter Kelli Buresh of Marshalltown; son Kraig Ware of Ogden, UT; and son Ed (Julie) Ware of Jonesboro, AR. She is also survived by 6 beloved grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren who she cherished. Gaile was wonderful to be around and showered her family and friends with grace, joy and inspiration. A viewing and funeral will be held at Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2014. Visitation will begin at 12:30PM and services at 2:30PM. Burial to follow at Hazelwood Cemetary in Grinnell.