Get to Know Gayle

A devoted father, Gayle was born to Harold and Alice Lunning in rural Blue Earth, Minnesota, January 30, 1943. His father enlisted in the Navy late in 1944, serving in the Pacific theater until the surrender of Japanese forces in September, 1945. After the war, the Lunning family rented a farm near the small town (population of 250) of Frost, Minnesota where Gayle began his school years. During the Spring of Gayle's sophomore year, the family purchased the farm near Morris Minnesota where Gayle graduated in 1961. He enlisted in the Navy after graduation and served four years as a Radarman aboard the U.S.S. Mullinnix, a recently commissioned Destroyer.

After his honorable discharge, Gayle returned to the family farm near Morris where he met, and in February 1966, married the love of his life, Diane Benson, daughter of Lowell and Ann Benson of Morris, Minnesota. Gayle and Diane relocated to the Minneapolis/St. Paul area of Minnesota where Gayle began a career in the battery industry as a laboratory technician. His diligence and work ethic earned him several promotions and transfers. Eventually the Lunning's spent their final years in the battery industry as a Production Manager in Sumter, South Carolina where Gayle began dabbling in creative writing. The Lunning's contend their greatest creations are in the form of Michelle in 1967, Stephanie in 1969, and Allison in 1977, three daughters who in turn have provided grandchildren that put the "grand" in grandchildren.

Returning 'home' to Lee's Summit, MO, Gayle and Diane now enjoy a more sedate lifestyle surrounded by the three daughters and their families. 'Enjoy is the proper term as all three daughters with their husbands live within a four miles and we can be involved in numerous family activities. The Lunning's have seven grandchildren and one great grandson on which to spread love and affection. We are blessed with God fearing moral and successful children and grandchildren, devoid of controversy and conflict that is too common among many families.