Gayle has been a lifelong resident of Carver County. Gayle and wife Lois have been married for 46 years! They have 4 children and 11 (soon to be 12) grandchildren!

Gayle grew up on Degler Farm, graduated from Chaska High School and Concordia St. Paul with a Bachelors of Science in Education. While teaching and coaching, he met Lois in Spring Grove, MN. They returned to the family farm and have been active in the community ever since. Gayle's involvement includes leadership in his church (President & Elder), School Board, Youth Coaching, and 4-H.

Gayle has served as County Commissioner for the past 20 years and previously 1 year on the District 112 School Board (Treasurer) and 9 years on the Carver County Planning Commission (Chair 5 years).