Grace G. Oyan

Grace G. Oyan, of Peoria died November 29, 2013, at the age of 90. She was a resident at Proctor Place in Peoria. Grace was born to Ida (Rick) and Carl Dittmer on April 21, 1923 in Leonard, ND. She graduated from high school in Casselton, ND and earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Jamestown College. In 1944, she married Douglas P. Oyan who returned from military service and became a Presbyterian minister. During WWII Grace taught school in a country school, and then devoted her life to her family and the role of minister's wife, during pastorates in Wilton, ND, Marshfield, WI and then at Arcadia Ave Presbyterian Church in Peoria until Doug's death in 1981.

Grace was an active member of her church. She served as a Deacon, and held many offices in Presbyterian Women who honored her with a life time honorary membership. In 1984 she represented Presbyterian Women on an 'Exchanges in Understanding' trip to South Africa. She also traveled to India, the Holy Land, and Europe. She was active in Church Women United, PEO, the Peoria Symphony Guild and Methodist Service League. She became a true artist with silk flowers for the gift shop at Methodist Hospital. Friends at Proctor Place enjoyed her many door decorations.

Grace is survived by two daughters, Debbie (Roger) Dornaus, of Peoria, Jackie (Larry) Robbins, of Batavia, IL; and one son, Thomas (Julie) Oyan, of Ventura, CA; seven grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and six step-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters. She leaves a legacy of 'grace', and love. She was a pillar of faith and service to God, her family, and her community.

Visitation will be Friday, December 13 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at First Federated Church where she is a member. In keeping with her Moravian tradition, the ashes will be buried at Swan Lake Memorial Garden on Saturday, December 14th at 10:00 am and a Celebration of Life Service will be at 11:00 am at First Federated Church.

Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Memorials may be made to Bread for the World, One Great Hour of Sharing, or Habitat for Humanity.