Gretchen Jane Watz (Renich)
Watz, Gretchen Jane (Renich)
On Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 2012,
Gretchen Jane Watz passed away peacefully surrounded by family at her
bedside. Gretchen was born on August 19, 1938 in Minneapolis to Robert and
Jane Renich. She was a graduate of the Class of 1956 at Washburn High
School. She was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother survived by her
husband, John, of 50 years; children Heidi, Patrick (Dawn) and Marcie
(Justin); brother Fred (Alex); and eight grandchildren TJ, Joey, Carley,
Mark, Jordan, Ella, Abby and Claire.
Gretchen was a resident of Mission
Viejo, California for 44 years. While living in Orange County, she worked
at the Laguna Hills High School, Mount of Olives Lutheran Church and
Culbertson, Adams and Associates as an Executive Assistant. She was
President of Saddleback Valley Co-Op (nursery school), President of the
Saddleback Valley Education Council and President of Ayudantes Auxiliary.
She started Let's Be Friends and was active in March of Dimes and Marriage
Encounter. Gretchen was responsible for forming the Spina Bifida parent
support group. In 1980, she received a Community Service award for her
volunteer efforts.
In retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her
grandchildren, book club, mentoring Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS),
participating in retired teachers and quilting groups, singing in the
church choir and living an active lifestyle. Her travels took her
internationally to over 30 countries. She had an extensive network of
friends who will remember her for her giving nature, kind spirit and sweet
heart. She touched many lives and those who met her were blessed by her
inner and outer beauty.
A service to celebrate her life will be held on
Saturday, December 29, 2012 at 11 am PST at Mount of Olives Lutheran
Church in Mission Viejo. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in
Gretchen's name to ImagineMore.
Published in Minneapolis Star Tribune on December 2, 2012
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