Gail Celeste Porter, beloved sister, wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025, in Sitka, Alaska, at the age of 84, with daughter Lynn by her side.
Gail was born on November 23, 1940, in Ketchikan to Norman T. Gerde, and Celeste, (Bram) Gerde. She graduated from Ketchikan High School and spent the majority of her life – 78 years – in her cherished hometown before moving to Sitka for her final seven years.
Gail’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit shined brightly throughout her career as the owner of Flower Cache in Ketchikan. She possessed numerous talents, especially for the ability to create exquisite flower arrangements, intricate hand-beaded jewelry, and high-end specialty crafts. Her artistry brought beauty and joy to countless lives and special occasions.
Gail actively engaged in community events. She held a lifetime membership in her PEO Sisterhood, served and was an avid supporter of Girl Scouts of America, and a member of Rotary International. She was passionate about giving back and supporting others through these organizations.
Gail’s hobbies reflected her love of beauty and the natural world. She enjoyed flower arranging, beading, boating, cooking, and crafting. Gail was also an avid collector of cobalt blue glass and shells, always finding joy in the details and treasures of life.
Gail and her husband George built a beautiful cabin that they enjoyed for years and will be cherished by generations to come. Her love of cooking and creating delicious meals was enjoyed by all who sat around her table. Gail spoke fondly of representing Ketchikan in the Mrs. Alaska Pageant, showcasing her skills as an accomplished seamstress. She was known for her skill and creativity with needle and thread.
Gail shared her life and passions with her husband, Captain George Ross Porter (Gator). Together they built a life rooted in love, creativity, and shared passion for boating.
Gail is survived by her two daughters Margie Malkuian (Doug) and Lynn Stewart; granddaughters Abby Kraft, Savannah Plank (Jeremy), and Stormy McGee (Chris); and great-grandchildren, Jeremiah and Ryder Plank, Grace Nelson, Bailey and Greysen Deets, and Montana and Mackensie McGee.
She also is survived by her nieces and nephew, Rhonda, Heidi and Norman Erickson; her sister Lynn Clay (Jim, deceased); and her nieces and nephew, Christie Hoffman, Celeste Clay, and Jim Clay; and her cousin Steve Shrum.
Gail was predeceased by her beloved spouse Captain George Ross Porter; her sister Joy (Gerde) Erickson (Dave); and her cousins Denise Metcalf, Myke Augustus, and Doreen Caldwell.
Gail will be remembered for her generous heart, her artistic gifts, and her unwavering devotion to family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of beauty, kindness, and cherished memories. Gail’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
The family has invited all to join in a celebration of Gail’s life at a family-hosted potluck picnic 4-6 p.m. Saturday, August 2, at Ward Lake in Ketchikan.
"Hotdogs and s'mores were her favorites so please come by and ‘burn one in her honor,'" the family said.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: PEO Fund, c/o Bett Jakubek, P.O. Box 7111, Ketchikan, AK 99901.
