Gail Maiers-Clarke

Gail Maiers-Clarke passed away peacefully at home on the evening of March 24, 2026 with her favorite kitty, fresh flowers, and her loving husband by her side. Her struggles with congestive heart failure and kidney failure came to an end as she crossed that boundary at 6:00 PM.

Born Gail Frances Tobias on 1-1-1942 in Bay City, Michigan, to Francis Lorraine Tobias and Hazel Elizibeth (Gordon) Tobias of Akron, Michigan. Gail grew up in a close-knit farming community among family, neighbors, and friends as an only child. She was adored by her community for her bright spirit and especially her beautiful soprano voice. Those attributes and her lifelong faith in God took her through life's ups and downs. And along the way she made memories and friends of those that shared her journey. Gail grew up in the Presbyterian Church in Fairgrove, MI singing with her father. As a young woman she performed with the Saginaw Chorale Society and civic theater. And later performing with the Little Traverse Civic theater in Petoskey forming a core of lifelong memories.

As a young Mother of three, along with husband Blair Maiers, the family made a bold move to Vermont in pursuit of the dream of being inn keepers and restaurateurs. Her skills in the kitchen were tested and honed in that experience and rubbed off on the children in the appreciation of a well-set table and a delicious meal. Alas, the stress of the business fractured the marriage and Gail made another move. This time to Harbor Springs. A new chapter of her life had begun. A humble beginning to another story line and a chance at new opportunities. Once again her bright smite and buoyant spirit carried her to several different jobs. Concierge at the Perry Davis Hotel, Radio sales for WLTO, and Concierge at a hotel in downtown Harbor Springs. And once again a church home in First Presbyterian Church of Harbor Springs. Here a new man enters her life and a new chapter in her story begins. Gail becomes Mrs. David Clarke on October 23, 1992, at the home of Barb and Stan Weber with the Rev Tom Cook presiding. Gail and her friends have prepared a delicious meal and a special treat of geranium scented wedding cake is served.

It is now that our dear friend has truly blossomed like all of her many flowers. Among the many passions in her life, flowers played a special part. Spring brought new ideas about what to plant and where. A trip on the Ludington Ferry to Manitowoc and further to a university research project with 5 acres of Peonies in bloom to choose from. Each year the gardening season was something to rejoice in. A new home was constructed, and the gardening work was well underway before the couple moved in. The resulting park in the back yard was Gail's masterpiece. There was always a garden party or al fresco meal in the planning, preparation or serving underway, and she took special joy in all the details that she poured into these gourmet meats.

Gail is survived by husband David Clarke, children Holly Wilder, Sarah Maiers, Peter Maiers. Grandchildren Andrew Maiers, LilyBeth Maiers, Georgia Wilder and Whitman Wilder. Many cousins and beloved friends.

It happens sometimes that life catches up with us and little aches and pains become chronic. Bit by bit the body weakens and age gracefully takes the place of youth until the Good Lord says it's time. Goodbye dear friend, here's to a life well lived!

A memorial for Gail is planned for 4-18-2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Harbor Springs. The service is at 11:00AM with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made to The Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the Wounded Warrior Project.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.