Gail Klatt's Obituary
Gail Klatt, 90, of Harrison, Arkansas, joined Jesus on February 11, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents Sigmund “Korky” Wesolow and Anne (Kurtyak) Wesolow of Harrison.
Though she accomplished much in her 90 years, the title she cherished most was simple and sacred: Mom.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Gail graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts degree in teaching, beginning a lifelong dedication to education and to the work of shaping lives. She taught third and fourth grades in Chicago’s inner-city schools, where her patience, high standards, and compassionate heart made a lasting difference. After moving to Bergman in 1969, her call to teach continued. In Harrison, she helped students earn their GEDs and taught English at North Arkansas Community College (NACC). Whether working with children just learning to read, or adults determined to finish what they had started, Gail believed deeply in the power of education to change lives.
Her devotion extended far beyond the classroom. Gail was her daughter Anne’s constant and faithful supporter—present at activities, cheering from the sidelines, and stepping in wherever help was needed including heading the Bergman Girl Scout troop for several years. Encouraging others was simply who she was and she believed strongly that, with dedication, you could accomplish anything.
Gail found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved to read and was rarely without a book nearby. She treasured afternoons spent playing cards with friends, where laughter flowed easily and friendships deepened over well-worn decks. She never passed up a good garage sale, delighting in the thrill of finding small treasures and unexpected bargains. And she loved dark chocolate, Dr. Pepper, pistachio nuts, and playing Rummicube. These weren’t just hobbies—they were expressions of her curiosity and her ability to find happiness in ordinary moments.
Community mattered to Gail. She was a member of the Harmon Friendship Club, where she enjoyed companionship and connection. She was also active in Fellowship Bible Church in Harrison, where her faith was both anchor and compass. Gail believed strongly in her relationship with Jesus and lived that faith quietly but consistently. Honesty, love of family and friends, and steadfast devotion to what she believed was right shaped her decisions and defined her character.
She is survived by her daughter, Anne (Klatt) Menotti of Harrison, Arkansas, who was the great joy of her life. The bond they shared was deep and enduring—a reflection of Gail’s lifelong commitment to love her family well. She is also survived by her son-in-law Todd Menotti.
Gail’s life was one of steady faith, meaningful work, loyal friendships, and quiet generosity. She leaves behind a legacy not only in the students she taught and the community she served, but in the example she set: live honestly, love your people fiercely, keep your faith strong, and never underestimate the joy of a good book or a card game with friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Fayetteville for close friends and family.
Her work here is finished, but her love continues.
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