Gael Marie Craft

Gael Marie (Sheridan) Craft, cherished wife, mother, and dedicated community volunteer, passed away on October 1, 2024. She was born on August 23, 1932, in San Francisco, California, the youngest of four children. Gael's upbringing in San Mateo fostered her love of music, dance, and acting, leading her to participate in various performances, including a play directed by Merv Griffin and appearances on Uncle Benny's Amateur Hour.

During her involvement in a St. Patrick's Day play, Gael met Warren (Bud), sparking a romance that lasted a lifetime. They exchanged vows on March 21, 1953, at St. Matthews Catholic Church in San Mateo, marking the beginning of a remarkable 71 year journey together. In 1965, Gael and Bud relocated their family to Tacoma, WA.

Gael dedicated 40 years to her career as a medical transcriptionist, all while nurturing a household bustling with children involved in scouts, sports, school, and church activities. She generously volunteered in the Fircrest Community, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Bellarmine Prep High School, Curtis High School and the Washington State History Museum.

Upon retirement, Gael and Bud embarked on adventures to Italy, England, and Ireland, indulging their shared love of travel. They spent many summers at their cabin at Lake Tahoe, where Gael and Bud hosted family reunions and entertained many friends. There she enjoyed volunteering for Corpus Christi Catholic Church and Sugar Pine Point State Park. Mom loved sunny days at the beach with her grandchildren, a swim in the lake and a good boat ride. She deeply valued the relationships and times with her Tacoma and Tahoe friends. Gael leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and dedication to family and community.

Gael is survived by her loving husband Warren (Bud), her children Michael, Timothy, Nancy, Patrick, Kevin, Kieran and Matthew. She had seven grandchildren and was also blessed with 7
great grandchildren. Preceded in death by infant daughter Mary and siblings Marilyn, Jacqueline and John (Jack).

Rosary will be held at Gaffney Funeral Home at 6pm on Monday, October 14, 2024 and funeral St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church at 11am on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. Interment at
Golden Gate National Cemetery, San Bruno California.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital Donate or The Lake Gatekeepers Museum Donate.