WA - In Loving Memory of Gail Karen (Schwartz) Alexander

March 28, 1957 - August 20, 2025

Gail Karen Alexander, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, best friend, guiding light, inspiration, wise one, funny girl, abundant over-cooker, traveling companion, listening heart, ready smile, the fighter in your corner and so much more, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, after a valiant and grace-filled battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 68.

Born in Chehalis, Washington, to Ken and Selma Schwartz, Gail grew up surrounded by the values of warmth, hospitality, and tradition that she carried with her throughout her life. She attended Washington State University before earning her AA and certificate in court reporting in 1979, a field in which she excelled. Gail co-founded Alexander and Ahlburg Court Reporters, a testament to her precision, professionalism, and entrepreneurial spirit. She later shifted her focus to raising her family and managing the family home, real estate investments, and charities - roles she embraced with devotion and care.

Gail and her "sweetie," Bob Alexander, celebrated their 40th anniversary on July 20, 2025. Their marriage was a model of enduring love, partnership, and shared joy. Together, they raised three incredible sons: Spencer, Lewis (Ayelet Gamliel), and Nathan (Dr. Lisa Dixon), each of whom carries forward Gail's legacy of kindness, curiosity, and integrity.

Gail's nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family. She and Bob opened their home to numerous foreign exchange students, ultimately gaining three cherished "daughters": Xheni, Hilda, and Eris. Her generosity and open heart created a home that was truly a sanctuary—filled with laughter, learning, and love.

Gail was the center of the family universe. Her & Bob's home was the heartbeat of countless gatherings—birthday parties, Thanksgiving feasts, Yom Kippur reflections, and spontaneous "just because" celebrations. She upheld and enriched the traditions of her parents and grandparents, ensuring that each generation felt connected to its roots.

Beyond the immediate circle of her family and friends, Gail was an adventurous traveler who was equally comfortable on a warm sandy beach, enjoying nature at a beautiful campsite or exploring and engaging with local cultures on six continents.

Gail served as Board President of Temple De Hirsch Sinai where she advocated for social justice (a trait passed to her sons), enhanced community involvement and coordinated all activities of the Women's Shelter. At the World Affairs Council, Gail participated in lecture series and hosted many lively dinners with diplomats from around the world.

Gail is survived by her loving husband Bob; her sons and their wives; Debra Schwartz, Steve, Pam, Emilie and Sofia Schwartz; Joan Alexander, Matt (Marcy) and Emily Weinstein. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the traditions she preserved, and the love she gave so freely.

She will be remembered for her radiant smile, her unwavering strength, and her ability to make everyone feel at home. Gail's life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her presence—always missed, never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to Temple De Hirsch Sinai, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Kline Galland or PanCan Network.