"Steve, Spencer, and Grant, Gwen was so proud of all of you. She was devastated to think that her time left with you would possibly be limited due to her cancer. She fought valiantly to stay even though the terror of being ill hounded her night and day. She felt comfort in knowing Steve was strong and that Spencer and Grant had grown into fine young men who she could count on to always do what was right, even if she wasn't around. Gwen was the bright spot when I would visit Mary Raber. I could always count on her for a laugh or advice whenever I popped into her room. She will be greatly missed by all of us who loved her. I think she is in a great place watching the rest of us finish our missions here on earth. Until we meet her again, we need to keep her memory close and heed what we have learned from her. Know that she is with you always in spirit as she was in life. May God bless your family with peace and healing in this difficult transition. Know that you are not alone in your sorrow, it is shared by all who knew her. "
In loving memory of
Gwen M. Grimm
January 23, 1962 - October 3, 2014
When reflecting on the life of Gwen Grimm, words such as compassionate, nurturing, and caring come to mind, however, the word that is most commonly woven throughout her tapestry in time is selfless. She was a devoted wife and mother with a special place in her heart for all children and a way of making the most ordinary things extraordinary. Blessed to spend the majority of her life with her true love, Gwen experienced so many of the best things that life has to offer. She was well loved within the communities she called home, and she used her passions and talents to enrich the lives of all who were within her reach. Life will never be the same without Gwen here, but the memories she leaves behind will be lasting treasures in the hearts and lives of all who were blessed to know and love her.
The 1960s brought us some of the most vibrant days we have witnessed as a nation. America elected the young John F. Kennedy as our 35th President of the United States only to mourn his death just a short time later. Martin Luther King brought civil rights to the forefront, and as the decade drew to a close we put the first man on the moon. Nestled within this exciting time was the year 1962 that was an exciting time in the lives of a young couple from Fort Wayne, Indiana, as they were pleased to announce the birth of a healthy baby girl on January 23rd. Gwen Marie was one of five children born to her parents, Susan (Schlagenhauf) and Harold Fields, and she was raised in the family home alongside her sisters, Jane, Jan, and Sara, and her brother, Randy. As a child she was given the nickname Gwennie Pig, which was the basis for her extensive collection of ceramic pigs that numbered in the hundreds.
In many ways Gwen was a young girl of her generation. She enjoyed spending time with her family, playing games, and playing with and caring for her dolls. Gwen also loved babies. In addition to making her sisters mud pies she made countless cakes in her Easy Bake Oven. In addition to a regular cake made by her mom, Gwens family looked forward to Gwens special cake on their birthdays. Even the family dog got a cake! One of Gwens favorite Christmas presents as a small child was a Mary Poppins costume. Little did her family know then that she would become a Mary Poppins mom, aunt and teacher as Gwen made magical moments for all the kids whose lives she touched. As a child, she combined both her crafty nature and her entrepreneurial skills in the form of her hanger shop. She spent hours covering wire hangers with decorative yarns, which she then sold to her family and friends. This craftiness followed Gwen into her adult years as her favorite hobby was card stamping. She was a gifted artist who loved to teach her craft to others. In addition, Gwen made baskets and enjoyed drawing. As a young girl she played tennis and also played the clarinet in the school marching band as a student at South Side High School.
Not to be forgotten during Gwens years in high school was her introduction to the man with whom she would write a love story that would span more than 30 years. His name was Steven Grimm, and they met while in the same algebra class. It was about one year later that they started dating. Gwen and Steve studied at IPFW and finished both of their degrees at Purdue University where their romance blossomed. Over the years, Gwen and Steve have made nostalgic visits to their special Purdue spots.
Gwen graduated with her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education in 1984. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, the high school sweethearts were married on September 14, 1985, in Fort Wayne. Gwen was a childrens librarian and an assistant manager at the Georgetown Library in Ft. Wayne from 1984 through 1989. While there she found her calling as a gifted storyteller. Children were always intrigued by the way she shared her stories, and Gwen loved making children feel treasured and uniquely special. She also enjoyed teaching children. Gwen left the workforce when she and Steve welcomed their first of two sons into their hearts and home. She cherished her role as a mother, and both Spencer and Grant were the light of her life.
Gwen savored spending time with her family. One of their favorite activities was camping at Colwell Lake in Michigans Upper Peninsula. Gwen loved nothing more than sitting around the campfire and singing. Birthdays were a special time in her home, and she went all out for both Spencer and Grant. Gwen loved making specialty meals according to their specifications, and their parties always had a theme. She had even the smallest details all planned out and there were plenty of activities, too. The boys friends still can remember the great times at the Grimm home due to all her hard work and effort. Gwens special touches also extended to the after prom party when she made iced doughnuts for the kids the following morning.
In 1993, Gwen and her family moved from Ft. Wayne to the farm house they call home today. Gwen made their farm house home and a gathering place for countless barn parties, family gatherings and holidays filled with massive card games, good food and open arms. After 14 years dedicated full time to her boys, she began working outside the home again - this time as a phenomenal substitute teacher who was in high demand as the favorite among the teachers. Gwen later began teaching full time at Coesse and Northern Heights. From there she spent eight years working at Mary Raber Elementary School. Her career came full circle when she retired from teaching. She was replaced by one of her previous preschool story time toddlers.
Although her life ended much too soon, anyone who met Gwen Grimm was bound to never forget her. Truly beautiful on the inside and out, her love for others was easy to see, and her devotion to her family and friends was unmatched. With selfless compassion, Gwen loved with her whole heart, a truly extraordinary woman. Gwens sweet smile and infectious laugh is embedded in everyones hearts. She will never be forgotten.
Gwen Marie Grimm, of Columbia City, Indiana, died on Friday, October 3, 2014, at Lutheran Hospital. Gwens family includes her husband, Steve Grimm; sons, Spencer Grimm of West Lafayette and Grant Grimm of Columbia City; mother, Susan Fields of Columbia City; brother, Randy (Sue Ann) Fields of Ossian; sisters, Jane (Barry) Cook of Charlotte, North Carolina, Jan (Chip) Zeller of Lawrenceville, Georgia, and Sara Fields of Columbia City; four very special nieces and nephews, Daniel Hoag, Sarah Alice Snyder, Emily, and Cory Zeller; and her special dogs, Miss Fannie, Trixie Beldon, and Lillie. Visitation will be held on Friday, October 10, 2014, from 2 to 8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes, a Life Story Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 11, 2014, at the funeral home.
Tributes
"My prayers are with all of you, I know Gwen will be missed by all, she was a great person to all and a great teacher."
"Gladys and I were deeply saddened upon hearing of Gwen's passing. You two will be in our prayers. Jim and Gladys."
"I am so sorry of your great loss.We didn't know that Gwen was ill so this came as a shock.Our prayers are with the family, parents and siblings."
"Gwen was the happiest and most loving person I have ever known. I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to teach with her and to be her friend."
"Gwen was a joy to work with while I was at Mary Raber. We shared many fun times together. She was stronger than she ever thought she could be while fighting this battle with cancer.She spoke often of the love she had for her family and I know that you have so many precious memories of her.My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time."
"Sending sympathy and love to you all.Gwen was a treasure.Loved her"
"THE COLOR OF MEMORIESTABLE ARRANGEMENT was sent by Sam and Karen."
"I am so sorry to hear about Gwen. I did not know her personally but heard so many nice things from her mother, Sue.This is a most precious time to remember all the goods times you have had and know that she is in no more pain.She is now in heaven with the heavenly father and will be waiting to welcome all her family and friends some day. Sue, we are thinking about you and praying that you will get through this. All our Love, Cindy Miller and United Faith Presbyterian Church"
"Our deepest sympathy to all the family of Gwen.She was a very special lady and a wonderful teacher.Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ralph and Myrna Bailey "
"I have many fond memories of Gwen and her family.Sending love and prayers for all you . Sincerely, Linda Sutton"
"We were so sorry to hear of Gwen's passing. We pray for our Heavenly Father to bring you comfort and peace. Jim, Harriet, Denny, Steve and Lauren Brown"
"I'm so sorry for lose. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers."
"My prayers are with all of you. I'm so blessed to have been a part of Gwen's life...she was like a sister to me. I will miss her so much. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers."
"Spencer,I know what a terrible sad time this is for you and your family,when you realize you wont be able to see ,talk to, or hold your Mom again this side of heaven. Try to comfort yourselfby remembering Jesus and the Angels in Heaven are celebratingthe homecoming of your Mom. I pray Jesus will comfort you and your family at this time of sorrow and be with you to give you strength and comfort in the coming weeks and months of grieving."
" Unfortunately Gwen was not in our midst that often but when she was we enjoyed her enthusiasm for whatever she was involved with.She was a treasured friend of our daughter's Mary Beth while they were in high school together. May treasured memories comfort and sustain you."
"THE COLOR OF MEMORIESTABLE ARRANGEMENT was sent by Angie, Caitlin, Jill, Leah, Bradie, and Caroline .With deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. "
"GARDEN PATH was sent by Chuck, Carolyn, Carey, Melony, Amy and Silas Hoefer; Dave, Judy, and Sydney Prochaska.With Sympathy -- Chuck and Carolyn Hoefer Carey and Melony Hoefer Amy and Silas Hoefer Dave, Judy, and Sydney Prochaska "
" Jan,Your love for Gwen was evidenced whenever we spoke of her. Although I knew her only at special events, you could fill me in on times spent together and the love you shared for each other. That love will sustain you during the times when memories flood your waking moments. God is holding you gently in his care during this difficult time. He will bring sunshine when the darker moments appear. Trusts in the Lord at all time. He will provide you with the strength and courage to face each new day. Much love, Joan"
"Sara, I'm so sorry to hear of your sister's passing. (((HUGS)). You are in my thoughts and prayers."
"Steve and Family, I am very saddened at the news of Gwen's passing.I remember her so fondly growing up with her at South Wayne Elementary, Fairfield Jr High and South Side High!She was always my friend and I'll always remember how nice she always was to me!Words are not enough to express the love I have for her even though we have not spoken for a few years.Prayers for you and family knowing that she is whole and healthy and in the presence of her Lord."
"Shedding a tear and praying for comfort for you all during this time."
"May the sadness in your hearts soon subside and be replaced by the joy and love that Gwen brought to our world.She was such a dear, special lady, and I feel blessed to have had the chance to know her."
"Steve, I wanted to convey my sincere sympathy on the loss of Gwen. I don't think I can fully comprehend what a profound loss that is. I know that you both had a strong and loving relationship. I will always remember the fun time we had camping in Michigan with your family. She welcomed me in as a part of the family. Her sense of humor was such a joy to be around.I know that you will have the strength to get through this sad and difficult time. During this tough time in your life, may our friendship, sympathy and heartfelt condolences bring you comfort. Ryan, Kelley, William, and Samantha."
""Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes.Because for those who love with their heart and soul, there is no seperation."- Rumi Deep thoughts and prayers to you all in your sorrow and time of need."
"INDOOR GARDEN BASKET was sent by Petroleum Traders.May loving memories of your wife fill your thoughts during your time of sorrow. Our deepest sympathies. From Petroleum Traders"
"I didn't know Mrs. Grimm personally but I knew that she was a wonderful lady/teacher.I know that the teachers at Mary Raber loved her dearly and thought highly of her."
"My heartfelt condolence to the family. Gwen was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed."
"Warm memories of Grimm Christmas parties remain forever.Gwen always made me feel like a member of the family, "cousin pat"."
"My prayers and thoughts are with you Steve, Spencer and Grant.Gwen was truly a wonderful person in all aspects of her life.Support one another with strength and love in the days to come. God bless you. Kate"
"May each of you find courage to face tomorrow as you rest in the knowledge that we truly care about each of your needs and that we will walk beside you in your journey of grief. Randy Grimes, Brett Gerber and the Staff of DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home"
"You are in our thoughts and prayers.Gwen touched many lives."