Audrey Luella Gratton

Audrey Luella Mabe Pinn Gratton
1921-2014
Audrey Luella Mabe Pinn Gratton of Meridian, Idaho, slipped away Tuesday, July 22, to celebrate her 93rd birthday reuniting with her daughter, husbands, beloved parents, brothers and many other dear family and friends who anxiously greeted her with party hats, hugs and kisses. Audrey was born in Melba, Idaho on July 23, 1921 to Jennie Craner Mabe and Virgle Mabe. She was soon a big sister with the birth of her brother Dale. Delightedly in her teenage years, two adored little brothers, Lynn and Allen made the family complete. She was raised on a fruit ranch on the South Slope of the Emmett valley, in a home full of encouragement, security, thrift, warmth, love, and where family, strong values, hard work and patriotism were most important.
Audrey achieved a childhood dream of becoming a teacher after graduating from Lewis-Clark Normal in Lewiston. She was an admired teacher of most primary grades in several schools around the Treasure Valley and Mtn. Home. She went on to advance her degree and graduated from Boise State University. She retired after 30+ years of teaching.
During WWII and through 4 years of letters only, she fell in love with Alva Eugene Pinn who was serving in New Guinea. They married as the war was closing and happily became the parents of two daughters, Pam and Debbie. They raised their family in Caldwell, Couer d'Alene, and Mtn. Home. No matter where they lived they enjoyed a close circle of lifelong friends. Audrey was passionate about her career, her friends, shopping, traveling, being active in many clubs and sororities and at every chance possible, wanted her daughters to experience life with her parents on the Emmett ranch or wherever they were. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
She became a widow in 1974 and was fortunate to marry a high school friend, Earl Gratton, in 1980, enjoying his companionship until his death in 1988.
Audrey was preceded in death by her daughter, Debra Sue Pinn Mecham; both her husbands; her parents; her three brothers; a great grandson; and many extended family and dear friends. She is survived by her daughter, Pam Pinn Field; son-in-law, Brent Field; son-in-law, Darwin Mecham; step-son, Johnny Gratton (Penny); 12 grandchildren; and 32 great grandchildren.
A viewing will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 27, 2014 at Relyea Funeral Chapel, 318 N. Latah St., Boise. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 28, 2014 at the Emmett Cemetery, 1205 N. Washington Ave., Emmett.