Grace was born on August 24, 1921 in Dakota City, Nebraska. She was the fourth of six children born to George and Frieda (Wendte) Bartels. She grew up with her family on a farm and attended school in Dakota City. She would usually ride to school on “Smarty” the family’s horse while her brothers walked.
After graduation from high school, Grace earned a teachers certificate and pursued a career in teaching. She taught in Nebraska and South Dakota.
She and Bill Kissinger were married in Sioux City, IA on August 26, 1953. Bill and Grace later moved to South Dakota, where they raised their son, Myron.
In 1984, Grace and Bill moved to Mesa, AZ.
Grace died on December 13, 2020. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Bill, and her five siblings Harry, Francis, Clarence, Arlene and Wayne. She is survived by her son Myron, her two granddaughters Brittanie and Bradie, and great-grandson Blair, as well as numerous nieces and nephews,
