Olivia Grose

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of our beloved Olivia Grose, who left us on January 20, 2026, at the age of 86. Olivia was a cherished mother who touched the lives of all who knew her with kindness, confidence, wisdom, and an unwavering sense of compassion.

Born on November 14, 1939, in Rochester, NY, to Perry and Ethel Dunn: they, along with her two brothers John and Bruce, helped shape her outgoing nature.

She attended Potsdam University studying music education and later earned a Masters in reading education from SUNY Albany. She was a director of the children's and junior choirs at First Presbyterian Church in Ballston Spa for many years. Music was an important part of her life, and she enjoyed singing in choirs, including at Bethesda Episcopal Church in Saratoga Springs in the 1980s and in the choir for the Alvin Ailey Dance Company's production of Revelations at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Her love for reading had her doing charity work at the Saratoga Library when she moved to Saratoga full time.

She started her teaching career in the music department at Burnt-Hills Ballston-Lake School District before moving on for many years in the Ballston Spa education system. She finished her career at Four Winds Saratoga, where she was an activities therapist. She was a gifted teacher with struggling kids and helped many find their own way through the educational system.

Olivia was a devoted parent, grandparent, and great-grandparent always placing family and friends at the center of her life. She enjoyed knitting, music, the arts and going to the annual jazz fest at SPAC. Olivia will be remembered for sense of humor, quick wit, generosity, and stubborn disposition.

Olivia is survived by her three children and spouses, Dr. Andrew Grose & Gina Lamparella, David & Cathy Grose and Jenna & Ron Olson, as well as her grandchildren, Olivia, Matt, Taber, Eliza, Maggie, Holly, Carter, and great-grandson Owen as well as host of loving relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her brothers John Dunn and Bruce Dunn.

A celebration of Olivia's life will be held later this summer once a date can be confirmed. We will invite family and friends to gather to celebrate Olivia's remarkable life and to share memories, love, and support.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Friends of the Saratoga Springs Public Library at, https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/BOzuAoc4Fq3XKenKZEWQpw

Olivia's warmth, laughter, and loving spirit will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our hearts.