Mildred Louise (Mason) Gammell, beloved by so many, passed away of natural causes at age 98 in Scottsdale, Arizona on July 27th, 2025. Mildred lived life in RED, literally and figuratively, right up until the end of her exceptional life. She was a strong, independent woman who believed in making the best out of any circumstance—something she learned to do at the young age of 10, when she lost both of her parents in Pennsylvania. She made her way to Iowa where she married and created her own family soon after graduating from high school in Stennett. Mildred was devoted to the hard work of farm life in Elliott with her husband Paul William Gammell. They celebrated 67 years of marriage before Paul passed in 2013. In her 40s, Mildred began working at Houghton State Bank, rising to manager at the Red Oak branch. She retired from the bank and farming at age 65, when she and Paul moved to sunny Mesa, Arizona.

Mildred raised two beautiful daughters, Paula Louise and Linda Kay. She made sure her girls were active members of their rural community, that they had a strong work ethic, that they did well in school, that they were exposed to the nicer things in life even on a tight budget, and of course, that they enjoyed having pretty clothes for social events. Mildred was very proud of Paula and Linda and all that they accomplished in their own lives. She also greatly respected her sons-in-law, Donald Fink and Jerry D Petersen. Family time and visits were a priority for Mildred. She truly showed that she cared by making sure she was always in communication with her kids and her grandkids. She would say, "Tell me what's new with you?"

Mildred's friends were a vital part of her life. She was active in her communities in Elliott and Red Oak, Iowa and in Mesa, Arizona. She made new friends easily but valued her life-long friends the most. Mildred and Paul enjoyed square dancing events, musical shows, and playing cards. They spent many years vacationing at their home on Lake of the Ozarks, sharing time on their boat with family and friends. Mildred was an avid slalom water skier well into her 60s. Many kids learned how to water ski because of Mildred, including all 5 of her grandkids behind the boat at once. Mildred loved staying on the move. In their later years, she and Paul traveled the country in their RV, visiting 48 states, and many casinos. She loved her trip with her girlfriends to Europe. Most know that she loved shopping any place, any time, but only for a bargain. Mildred embraced retirement by learning the Spanish language and taking a creative writing class. She enjoyed living close enough to see Linda and Jerry every week in Arizona.

Mildred was beloved by her husband Paul W. Gammell who passed before her. She was loved by her two daughters, Linda Petersen (Gammell) and Paula Fink (Gammell), who both, very sadly, passed away before their mother. She is loved dearly and survived by her son-in-law, Jerry D. Petersen of Phoenix, Arizona, her grandchildren, April L. Petersen of Jersey City, New Jersey and James M. Petersen (Kelly) of Phoenix, Arizona, and her great-grandchildren, Leila K. Wachter and Camden J. Petersen of Phoenix, Arizona. She is also survived by 3 other granddaughters and a great grandson.

Visitation with the family will be held at LeRette Funeral Chapel located at 1995 G Ave., Red Oak, Iowa, on Monday, August 18th, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a graveside service to follow in Evergreen Cemetery located at 1800 N. 8th St., Red Oak, Iowa. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests you do something Mildred loved – spend time with family playing cards, head out on a boat, or go shopping and enjoy a piece of pie! She did not dwell in sadness so she would want everyone to share a positive experience together!

LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.