Gail E. Hjelden, age 63, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at her home surrounded by family after a longtime battle with COPD.

Gail was born in 1962 to Darwin and Dorothy Hjelden in Macville, ND. As a child the family moved around with Darwin's work. In 1982 she graduated from Grand Rapids High School and went straight to work. She worked a variety of jobs in her life, calling herself a jack of all trades. She loved to collect rocks and work in the garage and garden. She enjoyed watching birds and hunting and fishing.

Gail is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Eugene Rupert; daughters, Melonie, Tiffany (Eric), Elizabeth, Steph, and Shana; sons, Chris (Katie), Terry, and Jesse; sisters, Jeanie, June, Doreen, Vicky, Renee, Edna, Yvonne, and Linda; brothers, Melvin, Norman, Chuck, Nick, Kim, Bobby and Johny; and 23 grandchildren. Her family and friends in Wyoming held a special place in her heart.

At this time, no services will be held.

Arrangements are with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.