Gail Darling-Tanneberg Obituary (2023)

Gail Denise Darling-Tanneberg passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her children, on September 6, 2023. Gail was born and raised in Zillah, WA and proudly graduated from Zillah High School in 1971. She loved growing up in a small town. She would fondly reminisce about countless skinned knees, the sound of the train passing through, cheerleading and hanging out with her many friends. Raising three kids was her top priority and she attended every practice, concert, game, and booster club meeting. She was always the favorite field trip chaperone. She enjoyed shopping for flowers and gardening in the spring, camping during the summer, making homemade Halloween costumes in the fall and shopping for Christmas gifts in the winter. While we never had any "bellyflops," she made sure we knew to "fight and kick and scream and yell." After successfully getting all three kids off to college, she moved from Issaquah to Ellensburg where her motto quickly became "just have fun." Her house was her sanctuary where you could find her enjoying wine by the fire. Wheel of Fortune and the evening news were her nightly rituals. She was always entertained by the latest "whodunnit" on 20/20 or Dateline. She loved being with family, listening to live music, laughing and making memories with friends. Her most prized title was "Granny." She had an infectious smile and a wicked sense of humor. To know her was to love her. She is preceded in death by Jack Darling (father), Alma (ne Klingaman) Darling (mother), Lynn Darling (sister), and Paul Darling (brother). She is survived by her brother Greg (Michele) Darling, son Jarod Tanneberg (Vincent Lopez), daughter Lacy (Jeff) Linney, daughter Hilary Tanneberg (Ryan Whitaker), nephews Cody and Jesse Darling and grandkids Rowdy and Mae Whitaker. Her extended family consisted of many more people than "only" those who shared her blood. Donations can be made to your favorite local charity. A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, September 16th. For more information, reach out to the family member of your choice.