Gretchen Marie Ortenzio

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Ortenzio, Gretchen Marie age 66 of Eden Prairie, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on Dec. 22, 2014. She is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Thomas; daughter Julia Ortenzio, daughter-in-law Danielle Chagnon; sister, Susan Emerson; many relatives and loyal friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Vernon, Katherine and Patricia Emerson. Gretchen was an educator since 1970 and taught in Wisconsin, Oklahoma, New Jersey, Kansas, Germany and the Minnetonka school district for 20 years where she taught German and Social Studies. She touched the lives of thousands of students and motivated many to become educators themselves. She had a passion for travel, was an exchange student in Uruguay in 1965 and after marrying an Army officer, lived in Germany with her family for seven years and enjoyed cuisine and culture in over 20+ countries. Despite her illness, Gretchen set the example for living life to the fullest with a glowing smile and contagious positive energy. Her friends and relatives describe her as a life force; a courageous, determined woman who cherished her family and friends, had a zest for life and who fiercely and proudly loved her daughter, Julia. She will be deeply missed and we will always remember her optimism, adoring smile and infectious laugh. Gretchen's Mass of Christian Burial is at 11:00am, Monday, Dec 29 at Pax Christi Catholic Church in Eden Prairie (12100 Pioneer Trail, 952-941-3150). Visitation from 10:00 to 11:00am prior to the service, with luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center or Park Nicollet Frauenshuh Cancer Center, where Gretchen received world class treatment and care.

Published on December 28, 2014