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HACKENSACK - Gretchen Ann Larson died January 30, 2012, after a sixteen-year journey with ovarian cancer, at her home on Baby Lake surrounded by a family who honored and loved her deeply.

Gretchen was born to Clement and Cecelia Overkamp in Grand Meadow, Minn., on February 25, 1944. Gretchen graduated from Mankato State College in 1965. Shortly after graduation she married Carl Larson on June 12, 1965. They lived in New Hope and Plymouth where they raised and loved three children, Brad, Joanne, and Ross. Gretchen worked in the insurance industry, with much of her career working at Northwest National Life Insurance and Merrill Corporation. She was raised in the Roman Catholic Church and was active at St. Joseph's Church, New Hope, and St. Joan of Arc, Minneapolis. In retirement, she and Carl became active members at Union Congregational United Church of Christ, Hackensack, where her journey of faith continued to deepen and grow.

Gretchen and Carl retired to Baby Lake, outside of Hackensack in 2006, getting involved in community life and enjoying the beauty of the lake country.

At Union UCC, Gretchen served as Vice-Moderator, member of the Church Council, the Women's Fellowship, and volunteered for VBS and Youth Activities. Gretchen served on the Board of the Baby Lake Association. She was an active member of the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance and the Minnesota DFL.

Gretchen enjoyed life on Baby Lake with her husband Carl and son Ross. She was an avid reader, enjoyed watching the birds, feeding the deer, wildlife and nature's activities on the lake. At the lake, she enjoyed spending time with her friends, family and especially grandchildren. Family and faith were her passions in life.

She is survived by her husband Carl; children Brad, Joanne (Craig) Richgruber, and Ross; grandchildren Brandon, Cole, Sam and Mari.

A Memorial Service celebrating her life will be held at Union Congregational UCC Church, Hackensack, on Saturday, February 18 at 11 a.m., with lunch served following the service. Please dress casually. Officiating will be the Rev. Michael Small and the Rev. Sheila Hunter. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gretchen's name will be received by Union Congregational Church, Hackensack, and/or the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance.

Arrangements are with Kline Funeral Home, Pine River.[[In-content Ad]]

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