Gayle Sundt
1943-02-22 2023-08-27
Sundt, Gayle Darlene (Plocker) age 80, passed away unexpectedly on August 27, 2023. The incomparable Gayle was born to the late Esther (Rouschar) and Harold Edward Plocker on February 22, 1943. She graduated from Hopkins High School in 1961, and earned her Master of Arts in Arts Education from the University of Minnesota in 1974. For 15 years she was the co-owner of The Medicine Chest Pharmacy, Sun Color Photo and Sundt Photographics in downtown White Bear Lake. A bon vivant and artistic soul, Gayle was a devoted art teacher, and taught at Central Middle School in White Bear Lake for 34 years. 4000+ students passed through her classroom, each benefitting from her empathetic approach to teaching. Her support resulted in over 1000 students receiving local, state, and national awards, including numerous state fair ribbons. In 2000, Sundt was recognized by the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her exceptional support of students, and awarded their highest honor, the Gold Key. Gayle was a steadfast supporter and participant in art events around the Twin Cities, clad in joyful ensembles typically topped with a beret. After her retirement in 2000, Gayle enjoyed socializing with friends at Café Cravings, Key's, Pannino's, Town Talk Diner, and the Vadnais Heights locations of Panera Bread and Perkins. Gayle is preceded in death by her parents and Scruffy Bear Person, her beloved dog, with whom she spent her happiest years, and who rests with her. She is survived by her many former students.