Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences Alumni Association
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1938 - 2023

Gail Puntureri (PT ’61)

Gail Jane Appel Puntureri June 27, 1938 - September 4, 2023 Gail Jane Puntureri, of Grove City passed peacefully on Monday morning, Sept. 4, 2023, in Grove Manor, following a brief illness. Gail Jane was born in Jeannette, PA, on June 27, 1938, to Adolph A. and Helen (Lesniak) Appel, Sr. She married Rocco L. Puntureri on Oct. 18, 1969; he preceded her in death on Sept. 18, 2013. Gail was a graduate of Jeannette High School in 1956. She earned a nursing degree from Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. She later received a degree in Physical Therapy from the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota and was recognized as one of the first female physical therapist in the nation. She was employed by the State of Pennsylvania. Gail was a longtime member of The Church of The Beloved Disciple, where she was active with the Rosary Altar Society and served the church as a sacristan for many years. She was a member of the Dashing Darling’s, Grove City Red Hat Chapter. Gail was a devoted daughter and wife, she enjoyed her family and friends, but mostly she loved her life shared with her husband Rock. Gail is survived by two sisters-in-law, Joan Appel and Rose Marie Appel, a niece, and five nephews. Other extended family member also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and two brothers, Adolph A. Appel, Jr., and Joseph Appel. Online condolences at cunninghamfhgc.com Memorial donations to: The Church of The Beloved Disciple, 1310 S. Center St. Ext., Grove City, PA 16127 Funeral Service: Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, at 11:00 AM in The Church of The Beloved Disciple, 1310 S. Center St. Ext., Grove City, PA. Visitation Hours: Cunningham Funeral Home, Inc., 306 Bessemer Ave., Grove City on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, from 4 to 7:00 PM and on Friday, Friday, Sept. 8, 2023, from 10 to 10:45 AM in the Day Chapel of The Church of The Beloved Disciple. Burial: Crestview Memorial Park, Inc.