Gretchen Wolfe

Gretchen Carol Wolfe, a beloved sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away on December 9, 2024, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, at the age of 86. Born on April 13, 1938, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, Gretchen grew up in a joyful and close-knit family. She was the oldest of three siblings, though she often humorously told everyone she was the youngest.

Gretchen was known for her poise, class, and impeccable sense of style. She earned her nursing degree from Mercy Hospital in 1959 and later obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Metropolitan State College in 1974, marking the foundation of a remarkable career in healthcare. In 1969, Gretchen and her sister Elaine embarked on an adventurous cross-country journey and settled in the colorful state of Colorado.

In Colorado, Gretchen worked at University Hospital for 25 years before continuing her nursing career at Swedish Hospital as a specialized infusion nurse. Her dedication to her profession and her patients left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Beyond her career, Gretchen had a passion for shopping and finding the best high-quality and fashionable items. Her family lovingly referred to her knack for gifting as “The Gretchen Collection,” a testament to her thoughtfulness and taste.

Gretchen also had a love for travel and exploration. She took three memorable trips with church groups to Amsterdam, Jerusalem, and Spain. A nature enthusiast, she adored the mountains and spent many weekends in her shared Granby house that she had for 16 years, hiking and driving through Colorado’s stunning back roads.

Gretchen is survived by her brother William (Bill) Branowitzer and his wife Barbara; her sister Elaine and husband Herb Hoffman; her niece Laura, husband Joe, and son Will Pinkowski; and her nephew Scott, along with his adult children Isaac, Averi, and Lance.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gretchen’s name to a charity of your choice.

Gretchen will be remembered for her warmth, grace, and the love she shared with her family and friends. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our hearts.

A Funeral Mass will be held for her memory on January 3, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.