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Gayle Ilene Connell Olenick, beloved Mother, esteemed leader, and passionate genealogy enthusiast, passed away on December 14, 2025 at the age of 86. She was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 24, 1939. Gayle attended Alamon Heights High School before embarking on a distinguished 36 year career at USAA, where she made pioneering strides as a female in the area of “computer operations”. Starting as a trainee, Gayle's dedication and talent elevated her to the position of Manager of Computer Operations (and later Command Center). Her commitment to the career development of her staff was highly valued by peers and leadership at USAA. Beyond her illustrious career, Gayle cherished time spent with family and friends. Whether at her welcoming home, or the lake house, the river or a local gathering spot for conversation and music, she found joy in the company of loved ones. One of Gayle's greatest passions was genealogy where her talent and efforts were highly regarded, as evidenced by the brick gifted to her in front of the Panna Maria Catholic Church for her extensive historical research on the original Polish settlers to America, particularly in the Panna Maria area where they established their initial homesteads. Gayle also formerly proudly served as an election judge for the City of Leon Valley. Those who visited Gayle’s home know that she absolutely loved to build and nurture a beautiful yard. As a do it yourself gardener/landscaper, she worked tirelessly to achieve lush and beautiful surroundings. She was twice awarded the Leon Valley Beautification Award for her efforts. Above all, Gayle's proudest accomplishments were her two children, Ed and Sherry. She dedicated herself to nurturing and shaping their characters and laying the foundation for their successful careers. Gayle's unwavering support and extremely active involvement in their lives were a testament to her immense love and dedication as a Mother. Never was there an event in which they were involved that they couldn’t look out and see their Mother proudly supporting them. Gayle is survived by her daughter, Sherry Hultsman (David); daughter in law, Sue Olenick (Ed); sister, Gloria Weiss (Roger) and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She is predeceased by her husband Edwin Olenick Sr.; son Ed Olenick Jr.; parents, Gerald Spear Connell and Gladys Whitley Connell; brother Gerald “Jerry” Connell; and brother Glenn Connell. In honoring her memory, let us remember Gayle for her exemplary leadership, unwavering devotion to family, and deep passion for preserving history. Her legacy of dedication and love will forever be treasured by those who were fortunate enough to know her. If you wish to honor Gayle’s love for and commitment to genealogy, please consider donating to the Polish Heritage Center at Panna Maria. www.polishheritagecentertx.org.

Tributes

Gayle Ilene Connell Olenick

March 24, 1939 - December 14, 2025