Gretchen Newman

Gretchen Newman passed peacefully June 14th, 2017. Born in Indianapolis, Indiana Gretchen was 81 years of age, living much of her life on the east side of Indianapolis, before recently moving to Dublin, Ohio. A memorial service honoring Gretchen will take place July 15th at 2:00 PM at Christ Lutheran Church of Irvington, 345 Kitley Ave. Indianapolis IN, 46219.

Gretchen was preceded in death by her husband Donald Newman, parents Gretchen & Harold Fahrbach, and her older brother David Fahrbach. Gretchen is survived by her sisters Janet Barnum, Becky Rusie, her sons, Mark (Durango), David (Lisa) and Sam (Mary) Newman, her grandchildren Chantry, Tate, Meghan, Riley and AJ, great-grandchildren nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Gretchen grew up in the Irvington area of Indianapolis where she graduated from Howe High School. During a time when working mothers were not the norm, Gretchen found herself working for Warren Township School District to support her young family. Gretchen soon began a fulfilling 37-year career with the American Automobile Association (AAA). She was the branch manager of the Braeburn Village American Automobile Association office and ultimately became a task force manager visiting AAA branch offices, providing needed support.

Gretchen was a prominent figure on the east side of Indy, going out to dinner with Gretchen could be like experiencing a scene from “Cheers” as she encountered friends and associates throughout the evening. Gretchen knew the importance of “giving back” and worked many years providing leadership and support as a member of the East Side Optimist Club. Gretchen grew up as a charter member of the Christ Lutheran Church of Irvington where she maintained a deep commitment and involvement in the church, it’s members and the community. Gretchen was honored by the International Lutheran Council for her years of hard work, dedication and countless hours of involvement with the Lutheran Disabilities Ministries. Gretchen lead bible study classes around Indiana and spent many summers helping to improve the lives of adults with disabilities.

One of Gretchen’s favorite possessions was her piano, she loved to play the works of Bach, Beethoven and other classical composers, getting lost in her music was one of her greater pleasures. Gretchen was also a voracious reader, at times devouring books almost daily. Gretchen was proficient at cards, Mahjong, and word games of all kinds, she had a reputation as a bit of a card shark. She loved a wicked smart game of bridge, euchre, or poker and would often be found at a card table while living at Trillium Crossing.

Gretchen often came across as a “tough cookie” yet you would quickly find that she was warm, caring, and generous of heart. Gretchen often shared the pride she felt for her children and grandchildren and all their accomplishments. We are forever thankful for all the laughter, love, support and practical wisdom Gretchen provided.

Gretchen’s family wanted to thank the team at Trillium Crossing for the great care and assistance they offered our mother. And a special thanks to Sam and his wife Mary for all the support and care they gave Gretchen during her years in Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gretchen’s memory to Christ Lutheran Church of Irvington or the MS society. Condolences can be sent to Sam Newman 7442 Coventry Woods Drive Dublin, OH 43017 or via email to [email protected]