Gale P. Cieplicki, 69, of Haworth, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2025. She is survived by her beloved husband of 40 years, David Cieplicki, and their two loving daughters, Ashley (Phil Stern) Cieplicki and Kaity (Brian Olson) Cieplicki. She is also survived by her four most cherished granddoggies, Stella, Artie, Frankie, and Migos. Gale will be truly missed by her beloved family and friends.
Gale was born on March 17, 1956 in Englewood to Anni (née VomORT) and Carl Volkert. She was employed as a 2nd Grade Teacher for Honiss Elementary School for 40 years, prior to her retirement on June 20, 2019.
From an early age, Gale knew she was called to teach. For 40 years, she touched the lives of hundreds of children as a second-grade teacher at Honiss Elementary School in Dumont, the community in which she herself was raised. Wherever she went, she was stopped by former students, lovingly saying “Mrs. C!”—a testament to the lasting impact she made on generations.
Above all else, Gale cherished time with her family. She could often be found in the bleachers proudly cheering on Dave and Ashley at their basketball games. She loved to watch Dave coach, even in the summer months. Dave drew strength from the unwavering support of ‘his lovey’, who stood beside him in his lifelong passion. She loved her days and nights exploring the city with Kaity, sharing laughter and a martini together. Summers were spent reading countless books in Long Beach Island and enjoying Chinese food Saturday nights on the picnic tables at Tenafly Swim Club, creating treasured memories and traditions that will be forever held close by her loving family.
Gale had a rare gift for making others better simply by knowing her. She was endlessly kind, compassionate, and generous. The way she lived her life is perfectly reflected in the words of her favorite book, The Wizard of Oz, “It’s not where you go, it’s who you meet along the way.” Meeting and knowing Gale was an absolute joy.”
Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2-6 PM at Frech-McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont, NJ 07628. Cremation is private.