Gail Sygutek passed away on November 8

The Crowsnest Pass Herald lost a member of its family this week. On Sunday, November 8th Gail Sygutek, owner and publisher of the Pass Herald, died peacefully with her children at her side.

Gail became a co-owner of the Pass Herald in 1968 with Bud Slapak. Together they grew the newspaper into a successful business in the Crowsnest Pass. This year the Pass Herald celebrates its 85th year in the community, the second oldest business in the Crowsnest Pass.

Gail was diagnosed with ALS in 2012 and for three years strongly braved this terrible disease. Upon her diagnosis, Gail stepped away from the Pass Herald leaving her daughter Lisa and her faithful staff to continue her legacy.

The following appeared on the Pass Herald’s Facebook page following Gail’s passing:
“Gail was a school board trustee for six years and a councilor for 12. She loved her community. She loved fighting for the people of the community. She loved her ‘Garden of Eden’. The Pass Herald is a little less bright now that she is gone, but it will remain her legacy to the Crowsnest Pass.”