Gamel, Paula Marie (née LaCroix), 67 years old of Kirkwood, fortified with the sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Sunday, November 20, 2022. Beloved wife of Steven J. Gamel. Devoted mother of Christina (Bryan Jones) and Julianna. Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Cornelia LaCroix, and her sister, Maria Kennedy. She was a loving sister, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, and friend to many.
Paula was born November 19, 1955. She attended All Souls for grade school and graduated from Mercy High School. She excelled in her career in corporate Human Resources until her company relocated. While raising her daughters, she worked in real estate and as a bookkeeper until her retirement. She dedicated her time and talents outside of work to her family – especially her nieces and nephews. She loved to plan celebrations for special milestones and embroider homemade gifts for Christmas. She fought breast cancer on two different occasions with an unfailing determination not to let the cancer win. She participated in clinical trials for treatments and underwent a new reconstruction technique in hopes of advancing options for future breast cancer patients. Her love for life and her sense of humor never faded.
A funeral mass will be held on December 17, 2022 at 10:30am at St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church in Kirkwood. She will be interred at a later date.
Paula was especially fond of helping children in need. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paula’s memory to Cardinal Glennon Foundation at 3800 Park Ave, St. Louis, Missouri 63110.
ARRANGEMENTS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF MICHEL FUNERAL HOME.
Steve, So sorry to hear of Paula’s passing and her struggles with cancer. I hope your coping well and look forward to seeing you at the mass.
Thank you, Rick. I really appreciate your comment – looking forward to seeing you at the mass. Hope the family is doing well.