Winnidell Gravitt Wilson

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Wilson, Winnidell Gravitt age 88, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2009 at her home in Eagan. Preceded in death by husband, John Wilson; parents, Andy and Winnie Gravitt, and brothers, Jack and Joe Gravitt. Winnidell is survived by daughter, Joanne (Duane) Lindahl of Amelia Island, FL; son, Murray (Rebecca) Wilson of Eagan, MN; son, Ross (Margo Squire) Wilson of Bethesda, MD; 6 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Winnidell was born and raised in McAlester in southeastern Oklahoma where her Choctaw ancestors located after surviving the infamous "Trail of Tears" Indian removal. She was a direct lineal descendent of Choctaw chief Nita-oshe and grew up proud of and involved in her Native American heritage. After graduating from Oklahoma College for Women in 1943, she moved to San Antonio, TX, to participate in the war effort. There she met and married the handsome and dashing young U.S. Army Captain John Wilson. After the war, the Wilsons migrated to Minnesota where they lived for the next 60 years. Winnie had a career teaching social studies to junior high children in the Bloomington and Edina school systems. She was a long-time member and supporter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) where she developed many life-long friendships. She loved to travel, read and play bridge. She was a staunch feminist supporting women's rights and causes. She was also an ardent shopper, and many of her friends considered her to be a fashion advisor extraordinaire! Cremation has already occurred. Interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Mpls, MN. In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to Planned Parenthood or American Association of University Women - Mpls Branch. Remembrance Ceremony Saturday, May 23, 2009 at 2 PM with visitation one hour prior to the service at: Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996 West 50th St. & Hwy 100

Published on May 21, 2009