Gloria Darlene McGonigle

Gloria Darlene McGonigle leaves a legacy of love, kindness and compassion. She died May 7, 2025 at the age of 84.
Gloria was beloved by her family, friends and caregivers at Bayside Manor in Gaylord. Her infectious smile, humor and generosity touched many. During the past several years, perhaps you were among the many people who received a package of ginger snaps or peanut butter pretzels for a birthday, loss of a loved one or just because she thought you needed to know someone cared.
Gloria dedicated her life to family. Born in Gaylord, Minnesota on July 26, 1940, she lived in the area her entire life. Gloria graduated from Gaylord High School in 1958. The following year, she married Glenn McGonigle Jr. at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Glenn and Gloria raised five daughters on their farm near Bernadotte. Gloria occasionally joined Glenn as he crisscrossed the country during his over-the-road trucking years. They also enjoyed traveling in their RV as two of their children, Kim and Lisa, lived out of state.
Becoming a grandma, then great-grandma, brought Gloria much joy. Whether playing ball, cheering them on at basketball games or listening to them play the piano, it didn’t take much to make Gloria proud. She often said “just do your best “ and “bloom where you are planted.”
Gloria had a deep faith and was a member of Faith United Church in Winthrop, Minnesota. She often spoke of the Holy Spirit in action. There was no such thing as a coincidence.
Loved ones include her husband Glenn, (Chub) McGonigle Jr. of Gaylord; children Lori Peterson of Shakopee, Amy (Steve) Kopachek of Pemberton, Pat (Greg) Klapotz of Litchfield, Kim (Gary Reisfield) McGonigle of Orange Park, Florida and Lisa McGonigle who splits her time between Gaylord and Orange Park.
Gloria was blessed with four grandsons and six great-grandchildren.
Gloria was preceded in death by parents Halbert and Martha Otto; sister Lorraine Buck; brother-in-law Ray Buck; great-nephew Tim Buck and son-in-law Paul Peterson.
A private celebration of life was held at Faith United Church in Winthrop on Saturday, May 10. Gloria’s family thanks Pastor Merline Duering for leading a heartfelt tribute.
With deep gratitude, Gloria’s family thanks everyone who has reached out with condolences and support.