Celebrating Gretchen

Saturday, June 22, 2014

Moran, Wyoming

Today is a day we will always treasure. Our dear friend Gretchen, one of my oldest friends, loved the Tetons, as I always have. She was my sophomore UW roommate and we had many fun adventures hiking in Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone — scenic places where moose, bear, elk, antelope and bison roam. Her daughter Chelsea, Gabe and her two boys, Bridger and Beckett, along with friends from near and far hosted a lovely celebration of Gretchen’s life in view of the glorious Tetons at the summer cabin where Gretchen thrived. Many old friends and relatives came to share funny stories, sentimental memories and deep affection for Gretchen, Chelsea and her boys. A prolific artist, Gretchen’s colorful paintings adorned the setting.

A week after Gretchen succumbed to cancer, Chelsea was diagnosed with breast cancer and has since been treated with surgery, chemo, radiation and most recently shingles. Totally unfair, but she is stalwart, proud and determined like Gretchen. It was so reassuring to see her looking so healthy and beautiful.

Jerry, Pflash and I rendezvoused at the famous Hatchet Resort — rustic, causal and charming — with a plethora of annoying mosquitos. We couldn’t have had a more touching, memorable day to remember and appreciate our longtime, cherished friend.