Gayle Georgeanne Claxton, 76, of Kenyon, passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024 at Three Links Care Center.

She was born August 11, 1947 in Stillwater, Minnesota, the daughter of Hans and Fern (Elftman) Tollefson. When Gayle was eight years old the family moved to South St. Paul, and she later graduated from South St. Paul High School. While in school she met David Claxton and they were later married on August 16, 1966, and they were able to have 57 years together. Gayle attended cosmetology school before working at St. Olaf College and later for Van Clemens as a stockbroker. David and Gayle later moved to the Northfield area and Gayle started Helping Hands, a handyman service.

Gayle always stayed in touch with her family, calling them on the phone to hear about their day and listen to them. You could find her going around looking at garage sales, out in her garden, crafting, or sitting down relaxing with a crossword puzzle. Gayle loved to travel with Dave and her children. She loved going to Washington and Oregon catching crab and having fresh crab meals.

She is survived by her husband David Claxton of Kenyon; children, Ryan Claxton of New York, Rachel (and Bill) Wesbur of Kenyon; sister, Carmen Tollefson of Kenyon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hans and Fern Tollefson; sister, Cheryl Willis.

Visitation will be at Michaelson Funeral Home, Kenyon on Saturday, February 3rd, 2023, from 2PM to 5PM.