Gretchen B. Frueh

Gretchen Bahr Frueh 76, of Lakewood Ranch died December 31, 2011. She lived with dignity, grace, a deep faith and unconditional love. These qualities grew even stronger as she lived with lung cancer during her last four years.

She was born in Beaver Dam, WI and grew up in Waukesha, WI.

Gretchen received her BA from Kalamazoo College and her MSW from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She worked in geriatric and medical social work, including hospice and was also a hospice volunteer.

She was a charter member of Peace Presbyterian Church, Lakewood Ranch, FL. She served as a Presbyterian deacon and elder in various churches and was a leader in starting Stephen Ministry programs at churches in Pittsburgh, St Petersburg and Lakewood Ranch.

Gretchen was a lifelong member of P.E.O. and was President of Pennsylvania State Chapter. She was a charter member of four chapters of P.E.O. in different cities where she lived.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, Jan. 28 at the First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak Street Sarasota, FL. A reception will follow at the church.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, John; son Curt (Elizabeth) and grandchildren Sarah and Andrew of Charlotte, NC; daughter Carol Russo (Robert), and grandchildren Peter and Daniel of Ivoryton, CT.

Her family, her faith and her host of friends were most important in her life.

Donations may be made to The Cancer Support Community, 5481 Communications Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34240 and Tidewell Hospice.

Arrangements under the direction of National Cremation & Burial Society, Sarasota, FL.