Post your condolences or share your Memories.
Greg and I were very saddened by your letter informing us of Gretchen's death, Jessie. I misplaced your card listing this site but have now found it again. We met Gretchen when we lived in St. Louis and worked together in the Dept. of Psychiatry at Wash U School of Medicine. She was a wonderful friend to have - passionate, intelligent, creative, kind, trustworthy, compassionate. We shared many good times, both at work and at play. We were grateful that she contacted us from St. Paul, we had been out of touch for awhile. But we had a few delightful visits with her when we visited my family in St. Paul, and I'm doubly grateful for that now that I know we won't have that chance again. I'm so sorry she's gone ~ Kristin
Kristin Carey
Gretchen was passionate and devoted to her family, friends, ideals, pets and pleasures (art, music, cooking).
She was a keen observer, with great attention to detail. Her descriptions eloquently painted pictures of whatever she was discussing.
Gretchen spoke poetically on many topics. Listening to Gretchen speak of her children and grandchildren was an opportunity to observe Gretchen in her glory.
Our time together included the treasures of St. Louis music and art. My favorite memories include Saturday afternoons at Spruill's Lounge.
Rest Easy, Gretchen.
Sheila McCoy
I just found out we have lost Gret hen today when in making out Christmas cards I decided to call her to verify her new address and chat a bit. So sorry she has passed away! I only knew her briefly while living in the same senior community in St. Paul, but I so enjoyed her company and all our fun times together. Rest in peace, dear Gretchen. You were a light in our world.
Becky Giusti
The monthly lunch meeting today of the YMCA Silver Sneakers group. We toasted our dear friend Gretchen and wished her peace. LeAnn Snyder, Bea Murray, Mary Schultz, Judy Davis, Nancy Davis, Donna Dunn, Vera Braga (missing).
LeAnn Snyder
Gretchen was the first friend I made after moving to St. Paul in 2018. We had so much fun together! Whether we were cooking at home or going out to a movie or art gallery or just listening to music, our times together were filled with laughter. And both of us so enjoyed our monthly luncheons with our fellow YMCA Silver Sneaker friends. I will miss her smile, wit and intelligence but I am so very grateful I got to have her in my life. Rest peacefully, dear friend.
LeAnn Snyder
Gretchen and I met at an outdoor music event when she lived in St Louis. We were close friends for almost 30 years. I could always count on Gretchen to suggest a unique film, a blues or bluegrass concert to attend, or a trip off the beaten path to an antique mall. I have fond memories of sitting on her back porch, drinking ice tea and discussing a wide range of topics. She held the confidences I shared with her, cupped in the palm of her hands. She was one of the most interesting women I have known. I will miss her, but cherish the memory of our time together. I am grateful she is at peace.
Ellen Stillwell
I have fond memories of Aunt Gretchen as a child, and was fortunate enough to reconnect as a young adult. We stayed in touch for many years.
I remember her as "arty" and cool, caring and passionate.
Carolyn Suitor (Klaassen)
I didn't know "Aunt Gretchen" in my adult life but have fond childhood memories of her as being kind and generous.
Jen Klaassen
I met Gretchen in 1978 when we were assigned to the same office at Washington University Medical School in St. Louis. We had a lot of fun, along with Alan, another office mate. We eventually went our separate ways, job-wise and city-wise, but stayed in touch. We had become close in a special way.
As Gretchen used to say, we were very different people, but there was a bond there. We never ran out of things to discuss. She was one of the few people with whom I could share anything. A friendship of 44 years is very deep. I'm greatfull I had that friendship with her. I will miss her.
Nancy McKellar
Gretchen and I were neighbours for approximately 10 years. During that time I have become accustomed to her early morning laundry routines, our interchange knocks on the adjoining wall to check on each other and the visit back-and-forth. Gretchen had an inner strength that at times I would draw on. We shared, smiles, laughter, tears, joys, and sorrows. I will miss Gretchen greatly. Be at peace, dear Gretchen.
Gary Allan
