Gail G. Heckeler

Gail G. Heckeler, 87, passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord on November 30, 2025, with her daughter and son-in-law at her side. Born on May 29, 1938 to her loving parents, Arthur and Alice Gould. Gail was a warm and generous woman whose life centered around faith, family, and the simple joys she found in spending time with the people she loved. 

Gail treasured her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren above all else, offering them boundless and unwavering love. She embraced life with a joyful spirit, soaking up the sunshine, camping beneath the stars, and enjoying the serenity of the beach and the water. She delighted in nourishing others through home cooked meals that brought family and friends together. She cherished laughter-filled game nights, where smiles were abundant, stories were shared, and the warmth of family and friends filled her heart. 

Gail was retired from NYS Tax & Finance and devoted more than 60 years of service to her church communities as an organist in Center Brunswick, Princetown, Glenville, and others. She enjoyed many years of league bowling with close friends, peaceful afternoons in her pool, and travels with family and friends, memories that will remain dear in our hearts. 

Gail had a remarkable gift for making everyone around her feel valued, supported, and loved. Always the first to offer help or encouragement, she embodied true selflessness. Her warmth, energy, and joy could light up any room. Gail will be remembered for her bright laugh, her generosity, and her steadfast devotion to the people she cared about. 

She was predeceased by her parents; her grandson, Tyler DeMarco; her second husband, Kenneth Heckeler; her stepson, Scott Heckeler; and her step-daughter-in-law, Cathleen Heckeler. 

Gail is survived by her children Jeffrey Vanier of West Palm Beach, FL; Pamela (Donald) DeMarco of Schenectady, NY; and Craig Vanier of Turner, ME; her grandchildren Ryan (Sarah) DeMarco, Zachary (Polly) Vanier, and Lauren (Crosby Rowe) Vanier; and her great grandchildren Riley Rowe, Jack DeMarco, and Bodhi Vanier. She is also survived by her stepdaughter Susan (Robert) Purga; her step-grandchildren Caitlin (Tom) Brooks, Scott (Fran) Purga, Brian (Hope) Heckeler, and Brad (Laura) Purga; her step-great-grandchildren Summer Heckeler, Sofia Heckeler, Kenneth Purga, Kinley Brooks, Peyton Purga, Olivia Purga, Kacey Brooks, Theodore Purga, and Matthew Purga; her first husband Terrence Vanier and several cherished cousins and dear friends. 

Gail’s life was a testament to love, laughter, devotion and generosity. She built a home filled with warmth and joy and leaves behind a legacy of compassion and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She was the heart of our family, a trusted friend, and a cherished soul. We will carry her with us forever. 

Funeral services for Gail will be private. 

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, Care of Tyler DeMarco Foundation, Memorial Account #50834319