Helen Lank

(From Parker Mortuary)

Helen Gayle Lank, age 86, of Joplin, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025 at Freeman Hospital, Joplin, Missouri.

Gayle was born on July 3, 1939 to parents, John and Mary Roberts. Gayle grew up in Bushton, Kansas and was a 1957 graduate of Bushton High School. After graduating, she married the love of her life, Donald Joseph Lank (Donnie) on August 22, 1959 at the Salem Methodist Church in Bushton, Kansas. Together, they were blessed with 58 years of marriage before his passing on January 18, 2017.






Gayle loved giving up her time and tending to others while volunteering for Red Cross and Hospice. Gayle was a woman of many passions and talents. She found joy in being a homemaker, life-long member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, sewing, dancing, cooking, doing puzzles, playing Bridge, being “Granny Gayle”, and caring for her loyal companion, “Blossom”, her basset hound.

To say that Gayle was selfless is an understatement. She lived her life in the service of others, always putting their needs before her own. Gayle’s legacy is one of unconditional love and support.

In addition to her parents and husband, Gayle was preceded in death by her son, Alan Lank, and granddaughter, Presley Ruch.

Gayle is survived by 2 daughters, Cammy Ruch of Joplin, MO, and Deana Reiner of Coffeyville, KS; 5 grandchildren, Camden Danner and husband, Blaine, Sheriden Ruch and partner, Connor, Matt Reiner, Jacob Reiner, Emily and Dylan Port of Washington State; 6 great-grandchildren, Berry West, Everleigh Danner, Elsie Danner, Stellen Shuey, Xavier Port and Zander Port.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, December 28, 2025 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel.

Cremation arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.