Gail Oster
Gail Joanne Oster, age 85, of Brighton, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on February 20, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Gail was the cherished daughter of Forrest and Alma Arnoldi. Raised in Taylor, Michigan, she graduated from Taylor Center High School in 1958, where she was proud to be both a cheerleader and Homecoming Queen. Gail later pursued studies at Western College, where fate introduced her to Neal Ballheim at a party hosted by mutual friends. The two would marry in 1964 and go on to raise two daughters, Beth and Beverly, whom Gail adored with all her heart.
Motherhood was one of Gail’s greatest joys, and in later years, her heart expanded even more with the arrival of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Family was her world, and she poured love into every generation that followed her.
Later in life, Gail was blessed to find love again with Robert Oster, whom she married in the early 1990s. Their nearly 30-year union was filled with deep companionship, joy, and devotion until Robert’s passing.
A gifted musician, Gail’s love of music was lifelong, nurtured from an early age by her parents, who owned and operated Arnoldi Music. She played the piano with grace, sang with heart, and always found beauty in the harmony around her. She also loved spending time walking outdoors, enjoying nature, and reflecting on life’s blessings.
Known by many as an angel on earth, Gail had a heart of gold. Though tiny in stature, her spirit was vibrant and powerful—truly “tiny but dynamite.” Her kindness, warmth, and strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
Gail is survived by her devoted daughters, Beverly (Jim) Parker and Beth Curry; her beloved grandchildren, Zachary Parker, Emily Parker, Ian (Sarabeth) Ballheim, Tyler Curry, Rachel (Luke) Curry, and Payton (Pete) Curry; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Leo, Ethan, Colbie, Lyla, Riley and Parker. She is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Oster; her parents, Forrest and Alma Arnoldi; and her brother, Forrest Jerome Arnoldi.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28, at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home in Brighton, Michigan, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a funeral service at 7:00 PM.