Gretchen Faulstich

Gretchen Faulstich passed away peacefully on May 14, 2015. Her sister, Anne, was by her side.

Her husband, Jim, preceded her in death. Even during her final moments, Gretchen surrounded herself with her children and grandchildren.

The daughter of Sherwin and Adaline Felthouse, Gretchen Ione Felthouse was born on August 8, 1933 in Oak Park, Illinois. Gretchen grew up in Elmhurst, Illinois, where she attended York High School. She later graduated from Lawrence College in Wisconsin.

In 1956, she married her high school sweetheart, James Faulstich. She traveled with Jim to Frankfurt, Germany so he could complete his military service. Together, they returned to Chicago, and soon became a family. Robert was their first child. They moved to Salem, Oregon in 1961, and during their time there, Julie and Clairann were born. They returned to Elmhurst, Illinois for several years and finally came to Mercer Island, Washington in 1979.

In all of the communities in which she lived, Gretchen was involved. She volunteered her time and was a supporter of the arts. In Seattle, she was particularly fond of the Pacific Northwest Ballet.

For 57 years, Gretchen was a loving wife and travel companion. She traveled the world. No matter where she went, home always felt the most comfortable. She entertained family and friends and kept a home that always emanated hospitality and generosity.

We will remember her warm heart, we will miss her smile, and love her always.

Gretchen is survived by her children Robert (Ann) Faulstich, Julie (Steve) Johnson, and Clairann (Aaron) Witz; her grandchildren: Jim, Tom, Dan, Greer, Addie, and Marcus; her sister, Anne (David) Holtz; and many nephews and nieces.

Donations can be made in Gretchen’s name to the Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle Opera, and Seattle Arboretum.

A gathering of family and close friends will be held at the Rainier Club, 820 4th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, on June 5th at 1pm in honor of Gretchen.