December 22, 1942 – April 14, 2024
Gaileen Etheline Mahlum, a devoted wife, loving mother, good friend and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2024. Born on December 22, 1942, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, to Madge and John Bague, Gaileen grew up in Kipling, Saskatchewan, Canada. She pursued her passion for healthcare, earning a degree in Radiologic Technology from The University of Saskatchewan – Regina.
Gaileen met the love of her life, Wayne Mahlum, at Kenosee Lake. Their love story blossomed amid the beauty of the lake. They were married November 14, 1964, and together they raised two daughters, Nicolle and Tiffany, and a son, Sean. A close-knit family, their weekends were often spent at the cabin, where they created lasting memories boating or snowmobiling.
Gaileen had a green thumb, and a love for gardening and canning. She found joy in attending her children’s extracurricular events and was well-known for warmly welcoming neighborhood kids into their home. Actively involved in her community, Gaileen was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, as well as several social organizations.
Over the years, Gaileen and Wayne made homes in Bowbells, ND, Hankinson, ND and LeSueur, MN, before settling in Kingman, AZ in 1990. Beloved for her warm approach and deep sense of compassion, Gaileen worked until her retirement as a dedicated mammogram and radiologic technician at Kingman Regional Medical Center.
In her leisure time, Gaileen indulged in spicy romance novels, solving paint-by-number puzzles, watching movies, and enjoying classic country music. She appreciated life’s simple pleasures, such as a good glass of wine and her weekly me-time getting her hair and nails done. Gaileen also had a soft spot for all dogs – whom she affectionately called her “fur babies”.
Gaileen is survived by her loving children Nicolle (Randy) Kupser, Tiffany (Michael) Bolton and Sean (Jennifer) Mahlum; her cherished grandchildren: Erica (Cody) Tesch, Courtney “CJ” (Meghan) Kupser, Ashtyn (Neal) Pastick, Layne (Sydney) Bjergaard, Michaela (Garrett) Bjergaard, Amanda Corey, Kyra Mahlum, Trace Mahlum, Trenten Mahlum, Brianna Kirby and seventeen great-grandchildren: Eastyn Henderson, Caden and Tate Tesch, Jameson Kupser, Watson Pastick, and Aniyah and Asher Rodin, Ayson and Axton Johansen and Mason, Kennedy, Rylan, Cayle, Kellyn, Easton, Luke and Callum Corey.
Gaileen was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Wayne Mahlum, her parents, John and Madge Bague, her sister, Patricia Obregewitsch, special friend Clarence Cox, great-grandson Logan Bjergaard, great granddaughter Morgan Ann and many dear aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Gaileen will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She leaves behind a meaningful legacy of love and cherished memories spanning from Saskatchewan Canada to Minnesota to Arizona that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. In lieu of flowers, plants or cards, the family asks that you make a donation in Gaileen’s name to an animal shelter of your choice. God Bless.
Gaileen Etheline Mahlum
