Gayle P. Hannes, age 61, of Pleasant Prairie, died on Monday, January 3, 2011 at the Midwestern Regional Medical Center in Zion, surrounded by her loving family, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Kenosha on October 6, 1949, Gayle was the daughter of the late Niels P. and Geraldine V. (Larson) Nielsen.

She attended local schools and was a graduate of Tremper High School.

On March 4, 1972, Gayle was united in marriage to Robert "Bob" Hannes at Grace Lutheran Church.

She was employed with Kenosha County for thirty years before retiring in July of 2008.

Gayle enjoyed watching cooking shows and boldly trying new recipes, going on cruises, crocheting and crafting in her free time. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Left to comfort themselves with loving memories of Gayle are her husband, Bob; her daughter, Camille (Frank) Denisi of Pleasant Prairie; her grandsons, Evan and Connor Denisi, and her three siblings, Jerilynn (Jack) Marran, Susan Nielsen and twin brother, Gary Nielsen, all of Kenosha. She is further survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Richard and Roger Nielsen; and her sister-in-law, Kelley Nielsen.

Funeral services for Gayle will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, January 7, 2011 at the Piasecki-Althaus Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Sunset Ridge Memorial Park. A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 6, 2011 from 5:00 - 8:00 PM at the funeral home.