Miriam was born May 31st, 1939, in Jamestown, New York, to Everett and Frances Eaton as the youngest of 5 daughters. She attended Gridley Junior High School in Erie, PA, and later graduated from Strong Vincent High School, Erie, PA. She continued her education at Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio and earned a degree in Radiologic Technology.
Her early years were marked by a close-knit family who owned a restaurant called The Castle (Food fit for a King) in Erie Pennsylvania, and they resided on a farm in Rockdale Township, Pennsylvania. Miriam's passion for music began in her childhood when she sang in a group alongside her sisters in Lake Chautauqua and surrounding areas.
On September 30th, 1961, she wed William Arthur Gripp in South Euclid, Ohio, and they were married for 63 years. They moved to Chesterland, Ohio where they resided for over 60 years. Miriam's professional journey started as a Radiologic Technician for Drs. Krause Lubert & Associates. Her dedication and capabilities led to her promotion to Office Administrator, where she devoted 42 years of her life.
Miriam's love for music was unparalleled. She sang with the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus and was an integral part of the Christ Presbyterian Church Choir for over 40 years. Whether it was performing in small groups with her sisters or directing the Bell Choir at her church, Miriam shared her immense talent and passion for music. She also shared this love with her children and grandchildren, teaching them Bible songs and nursery rhymes.
Miriam's gift for bringing people together extended beyond her family. She opened her home for various gatherings and events, including choir parties, progressive dinners, and church-related celebrations. She had an incredible ability to make new visitors feel welcome at church and actively served as a deacon, choir member, and event host.
Miriam is survived by her devoted husband, William Arthur Gripp, her daughter Cindy Dalagiannis (Dr. Tom Dalagiannis), her son Richard Gripp, her grandchildren Dr. Nicholas Dalagiannis (Kennedy), Madelyn, William, Grace and Alex Dalagiannis, Leah and Lily Gripp, and great-grandson Grayson Dalagiannis. She is also survived by her sister Joyce Ring (Donald dec’d), along with many cherished nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents, Everett Barry and Frances Mildred Eaton, her in-laws Nelson and Esther Gripp, and her sisters Ruthe Jones (Linford), Leah Chandler (Arthur), and Rachel Marcinko (Frank).
The family expresses their gratitude to Hospice of Northwest Ohio for their exceptional care of Miriam. Flowers can be sent to either funeral home. Memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Northwest Ohio or The Alzheimer's Association (online), or to Christ Presbyterian Church. Miriam Lucille Gripp's legacy of love and music will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Services to celebrate Miriam's life will be held on Thursday, September 7th, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Maison-Dardenne-Walker Funeral Home, 501 Conant St., Maumee, Ohio 43537, and on Friday, September 8th, from 2:00pm to 8:00pm at Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, Ohio 44026. The Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, September 9th, at Christ Presbyterian Church, 12419 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, Ohio 44026, at 11:00 am followed by a luncheon.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gattozziandson.com for the Gripp family.
