Gretchen Francis Berens Westby, 83

Gretchen Francis Berens Westby, 83, went home to be with the Lord with family by her side on Dec. 3, 2014.

Gretchen was born to Lawrence and Agnes Berens on July 15, 1931, and was raised in Wisconsin. She graduated from Whitewater College and then married the love of her life, Bob, on June 11, 1955, and they started their life together by moving to Arizona. Gretchen taught elementary school for three years before starting a family of her own and brought six beautiful children into the world. She went on to serve as an officer for two different corporations, over a span of 30 years.

Besides taking every opportunity to share her loving touch and generous heart, she was always willing to jump at whatever adventure her kids could talk her into. But her biggest adventure of all was spent by Bob's side, even in the game of golf, which she grew to love. Gretchen always looked forward to every family gathering, whether it was birthdays, sports events, holidays, weddings or numerous vacations. And her home was, at all times, a welcoming haven to all who entered.

Gretchen's tender presence will be missed by her devoted husband of 59 years, Robert Westby; and daughters, Jacqueline (William) Dalton, Judith Oakes, Jolene (Roger) Morley and Joan (Tim) Ekberg; and sons Jon (Michelle) Westby and James (Shanti) Westby; and 24 grandchildren including spouses; and eight great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.

Our hearts are with you, Gretchen!