Ann Gradishar

Ann’s obituary as written by Ann:

Ann B. Gradishar, 97, of Aurora died Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Essentia Health-Northern Pines.  Ann will be inurned into the Forest Hill Cemetery Columbarium in Aurora. 

I have said my goodbyes to my wonderful and caring sons, Joseph and Kevin and their families. If you were to ask me “How was your life?” I’d say: “Life was great.” I was blessed with a wonderful husband and three loving sons. I come from a family of twelve children, all now deceased. My Dad, John Petrich was a hard worker and brought home the paycheck to take care of us. My mother, Louise knew how to make that money stretch, so that we were never in need of the necessities of life. We were well cared for.

Upon completing my education, I chose to stay at home. I was needed to help mother. I met my future husband, Lee, the love of my life and we were married in 1947. We moved several times and finally settled in Aurora. Lee and I raised our three sons: Joe, Kevin and Jim. We were blessed. My beloved Lee passed away in 2007 after sixty years of togetherness. I lost my youngest son, Jim in 2010. My heart was broken once again. I had to go on with life and make it was happy as possible. I maintained my house and yard with the help of my two buddies: John Deere tractor and Toro snowblower. I had many hobbies including watercolor painting, writing poetry, baking and cooking. Reading was my passion and when the spirit moved me I’d pound out a tune on the old piano in the basement.

My circle of friends was very small, but those who were there for me, I treasured. You know who you are. My sons and grandchildren and their families were my life. Thank you all. As Kevin would say “Life is good, enjoy it while you can.”

Make room up there Lee and Jim, here comes Annie! Love you all. Thank you for being in my life.

-Mom