Gail Hovel

As a result of current restrictions on gatherings, we are providing HeartStrings, our online sympathy message where you can upload a photo and write a note or share a memory that will be printed and given to the family. Please click here to send your support.

Gail Yvonne (Ekstrom) Hovel passed away on January 4, 2021 at Cannon Rivers Senior Living in Cannon Falls at the age of 93.

Gail was born July 22, 1927 to Linda (Johnson) and Rody Ekstrom at home in rural Cannon Falls, MN.

She attended Cannon Falls Schools and taught school through the normal training program for one year in a country school between Stanton and Northfield. She married Laurence Hovel on August 10, 1946. Two children were born to this union, Linda and Gary.

Gail worked at Kid Duds in Cannon Falls for many years, starting in 1961. She enjoyed working outdoors with the garden and her many flowers; walking in the woods; identifying birds by their song; going to garage sales and local antique shops; cooking and making excellent lefsa with her expertise. She liked her many cookbooks and enjoyed making quilts.

Gail was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Laurence “Larry” (1999); three brothers; Glen, Bill and Charles Ekstrom; sister, Helen Ekstrom; and a granddaughter, Heather Roberson Ludwig.

She is survived by a daughter, Linda (Tom) Roberson of Ames, IA and a son, Gary (Nancy) Hovel of Cannon Falls; grandchildren, Robert Ludwig, Brad (Kelly) Hovel, Terri (Ross) Fredin, and Greg (Courtney) Hovel; eight great-grandchildren, Peter Ludwig, Lily and Riggin Hovel, Jordon, Max, and Larissa Fredin, Cashton and Caleb Hovel; and several nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held. Memorials are preferred to donor’s choice.

If you would like to send a card to Gail’s family, please mail to: The Family of Gail Hovel, c/o Lundberg Funeral Home, 5839 Hwy 19 Blvd, Cannon Falls, MN 55009.