an. 22, 1916- July 17, 2006
Gretchen W. Beebe, 90, of Sweet Home died July 17, 2006.
She was born in Central City, Neb. to Frank and Martha (Weller) Wallace. She attended Normal (Teacher’s) College in Chadron, Neb., and taught at an isolated, one-room schoolhouse in the Nebraska ranch country.
She married Donald Beebe on Nov. 13, 1937. In 1941 they moved, together with other family members, to Whittier, Calif., where she later worked as an aircraft riveter while her husband was overseas in World War II.
After the war the extended family moved to Oregon, settling on a farm on Mountain Home Drive in 1946. She lived and worked there for the next 50 years. She also worked at Mollie’s Bakery in Sweet Home for many years.
Always a devoted and unselfish woman, Mrs. Beebe was a faithful member of the United Methodist Church of Sweet Home, where she served in various leadership positions. She was especially committed to the Church School, serving for many years as teacher.
After the family moved to Sweet Home from the farm in 1994, she became active in a Great Decisions discussion group. While she suffered from severe arthritis for many years, her mind remained active and clear throughout her final illness.
The center of Mrs. Beebe’s life was a profound faith in God. This was coupled with a deep love for family and friends and a spirit of gratitude for the blessings of life.
Mrs. Beebe is survived by her husband, Donald; children, Michael Beebe of San Anselmo, Calif. and Tamara West of Portland; sister, Betty Burry of Portland; brother-in-law, Douglas Beebe of Sweet Home; two grandchildren; three great-granddaughters; eight nieces; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her sisters, Edna, Gladys, Dorothy and Martha.
Following a private burial, a memorial service was held July 23, at the United Methodist Church of Sweet Home. Memorial contributions may be sent to the United Methodist Church of Sweet Home.
Workman & Steckly Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.