July 22, 1983 - August 18, 2018
It is with great sorrow that we, her parents, announce the death of Gretchen Windschitl, 22 July 1983 - 18 August 2018. She died suddenly and unexpectedly in her condo in Saint Louis Park, MN from an intercerebral hemorrhage due to hypertension, and was found at 2:00 pm Saturday 18 August 2018 when we came to visit for a mother-daughter massage appointment that day.
Gretchen was the best of daughters, bringing more love and joy to us than we could have imagined, and the day will never pass without us remembering her, loving her and missing her. Simply put, she was FUN - there are very, VERY few people who had given her cause to dislike them, and vice-versa.
Gretchen was born in Arlington, TX practically within sight of the 'old' ballpark, which combined with her grandpa 'Poppo' Curt Mohler's deep love of baseball to make her a lifelong Texas Rangers fan. When the Rangers came to play the Twins, she rarely missed a game and proudly wore her Rangers ballcap. She also shared her mother's affection for the Dallas Cowboys football team.
Gretchen spent her first twelve years in North Texas, attending St John the Apostle school until mid-6th grade, when her dad's new job made us move to Minnesota. She finished grade school at St Helena's in Minneapolis, continued through Academy of Holy Angels high school in Richfield, and got a degree in Accounting from Minnesota School of Business.
Gretchen was a good knitter, a movie watcher (action/adventure, Marvel Cinematic Universe, and lots of 'anime'), and a devoted Pokemon player. She loved attending the annual late-summer bonfire party at a friend's rural place, reconnecting with many close friends from high school. She enjoyed oriental food, especially 'pot-stickers'. Gretchen's favorite color was deep purple. She had planned to adopt a cat. She'd been on several cruises, and often said if she won a lottery the first thing to do would be a round-the world cruise.
Gretchen was very much enjoying her condo, making it 'her own', and had a very nice bunch of neighbors. She also loved her hybrid car and enjoyed driving it around Mpls / St Paul. She was building a life, and we wish we'd seen more of it before God called her home.
She is survived by her parents, David and Susan Windschitl; long-time friend Karl Heil; many other relatives and friends.
She had planned to adopt a cat; as a memorial to her love of animals, we request donations to the Minnesota Zoo or to the wildlife fund or animal shelter of your choice.
Mass of Christian Burial
Wednesday, August 29, 2018
7:00 PM
Casual / comfortable dress is very O.K., and favorite tees with superheroes, anime cartoon characters, video game characters etc is encouraged.
St. Richard's Catholic Church
7540 Penn Avenue South
Richfield, Minnesota 55423
Visitation
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
5:00 - 8:00 PM
Morris Nilsen Chapel
6527 Portland Avenue
Richfield, Minnesota 55423
My niece Gretchen was always very joyful and full of life. I’m sorry she was taken so soon in life. I know she shared a sense of humor and wit with her father, my brother, and enjoyed various activities with her mother. I will miss her.
David and Susan,
Having lost 2 babies of our own, I can only imagine what you two are going through right now. It seemed that every time we got together she would be a huge focus of conversation for us. We all know you loved her dearly and will truly miss her. Just remember that you have family and friends that are always willing to just listen and try and ease the pain you are going through, you do not need to handle it alone. Hold onto the good things and remember all the good times you had with her. Also look forward to the day when you can see her again in the resurrection. Rev. 21:3,4 and John 5:25-29
Hugs and prayers for you Dave and Susan. Gretchen is and was your centerpiece of life, who knew she was also Loved by so many family members and Friends. Thinking of both of you every day, Love Dee and Pauline
Gretchen was a grade older than me at Holy Angeles and we rode the bus together. She was the kindest person and her laugh was infectious. Unfortunately I live in California and will not be able to attend the services but I want you to know that had I lived closer I would because even though it’s been close to two decades since I last saw her she had a great impression on me. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I went to St Helena with Gretchen and we were friend on fb but I recently had my account hacked and erased. I found out of her passing through a mutual fb and St. Helena friend. I’m in shock and so heartbroken to hear of this news. Gretchen was always so inclusive, kind and joyful. She taught me how to knit and I still have the pot holders we made at recess at St. Helena. Gretchen showed me at a young age what being comfortable in your own skin and identity meant. In a world where everyone strives to be the same she stood out and stood up for others! She always spoke truth and I’ll never forget how she stood tall for those that felt small. My deepest condolences and prayers. Monique
There was always a smile on Gretchen’s face. She never had a harsh word about anybody. When Mark, my husband passed away in November 2017, Gretchen came over to me in my kitchen, put her arm around me and said “Aunt Sheri, everything will be ok, only the best ones go so young”. Well I guess that’s true.
Gretchen you will be greatly missed by all. Love you so much.
Dave and Susan,
My heart aches for you, your family and all her friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. I am always here.
Hugs,
Brian and Kelly Gaspard
Sorrow and grief cannot be expressed in words. The only words that can heal us is God’s words and love. Gretchen was special and although we didn’t get a chance to really know her, her parents are truly amazing; amazing enough to raise a wonderful daughter. Our deepest love and aloha to the Windschitl family.
Dave & Susan,
I wish I could find the words to express the shock & deep sorrow I feel at the untimely passing of Gretchen. Since moving back to Minnesota from Texas with the two of you, I have taken great joy in Gretchen’s wit, her unique sense of humor, and her warm, down-to-earth personality. I will miss her. My love and prayers are with you both, today and always.
Dave and Susan there are not words….but Mike and I will hold you guys in our thoughts. We are both so sorry for your loss. Sherrie
Dave & Sue – No words can ever be enough to repair the heartache and devastation that you and your family are feeling right now. But please know our heartfelt sorrow during this time. We are here to provide any support your family needs.
Please let me know if you need anything.
The Higgins Family
LaVonne and Patrick
Revelation 21:4
I wish I could spend more time with your family. I remember meeting Gretchen at the family reunion at my Mom’s house and we had tents and campers all over her back yard on lake Jewett just outside of Fergus Falls, MN. It was an awesome visit and I loved meeting your family. Gretchen was a sweet young lady and she smiles all the time. I love you all so much and my prayers are with you all. May God bless and comfort you. Patty (Zumwalde) Lewis
The news of Gretchen’s passing was an incredible shock. she was so full of enthusiasm and compassion. She never failed to amuse me with her “out of the box” thinking and her wry sense of humor. She was a treasure that we all will cherish. We miss you Gretchen.
I met Gretchen once at Wells Fargo and what a refreshing young lady she was. My deepest condolences to the family. God test our faith, but remember GOD makes no mistakes. My prayers are with the family and may God bless you all.
Dave & Sue – No words of comfort can ever be enough t repair the heartache that you and your family are feeling right now, but please know our heartfelt sorrow during this time. We are here to provide any support your family needs. Please let me know if you need anything.
The Higgins Family
LaVonne and Patrick
I am so very sorry for your loss. Gretchen was always a kind soul and beautiful person. Peace be with you.
May you find strength from the God of comfort and peace of mind from Isaiah 41:10,13.