Gail Cossette

In Loving Memory of Gail Cossette

Gail Cossette, born on November 6th, 1947, was a woman whose warmth, wit, and unwavering devotion to family shaped every chapter of her life, passed away on September 3rd, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her most. Her legacy is stitched into the laughter of her grandchildren, the stories she told, and the quiet moments she treasured.

Gail is survived by her daughter Cindy Quibell and son-in-law Matt; grandson Brandon Quibell and his wife Julianne; and great-grandson Leo Quibell. Her son James Cossette and daughter-in-law Jena also carries her memory forward, granddaughter Kendra Bachmann and her husband Tanner along with step-granddaughter Reily Reitmeier round out her immediate family.

Among Gail’s greatest joys in life was spending time with her grandchildren, Brandon and Kendra. Whether it was baking her special sugar or peanut butter star cookies, storytelling, shopping, or simply sitting together, Gail poured her heart into every moment with them. She was their biggest cheerleader, their confidante, and their source of endless love and laughter. Her bond with them was deep and enduring filled with shared adventures, spontaneous activities, and the kind of memories that become family legends.

She is reunited with those who went before her and held a special place in her heart: her beloved husband Orel Cossette, her parents Beverly and James Endersbe Sr., her cherished Grandma West Fargo (Gladys Endersbe), her brother Uncle Jim (James Endersbe Jr.), and cousins Connie Tollefson and Lois Carter, as well as brother-in-law Allen Sturm.

Gail’s life was rich with simple pleasures: exchanging letters and FaceTime calls with Judy and Fred, reminiscing with Isie about the Cossette and Sturm boys, and planning every detail of Christmas with joyful precision. She had a flair for crafting the perfect to-do list and a talent for storytelling—always with a touch of embellishment that made each tale sparkle.

She found peace at the lake, joy in snuggling with a kitty or puppy, and comfort in a good book. Gail had a particular fondness for apple crisp, apple pie, apple fritters, and a good piece of watermelon paired with buttered toast. Her spontaneous trips to Mahnomen and other casinos were a source of delight and adventure.

Professionally, Gail began her career as a phone operator and rose to become a respected leader in the telecommunications industry. She retired after decades of service through the transitions of Northwestern Bell, US West, and Qwest.

Gail and Orel would have celebrated 61 years of marriage on September 4, 2025—a testament to the enduring love they shared.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to your favorite pet-related nonprofit organization, honoring Gail’s lifelong affection for animals.

Her stories, her laughter, and her love will echo in the hearts of all who knew her—especially in the lives of her grandchildren, who were her pride and joy.

Gail always valued simplicity and closeness. In keeping with her gentle spirit and quiet strength, she requested no formal funeral. Instead, her life will be honored in a private graveside gathering with her immediate family—just as she would have wanted.