Gretchen Elizabeth Eshleman

Gretchen Elizabeth Eshleman, 69, passed away after a courageous fight following an extended illness on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Gretchen was born in Greensburg, PA to Eugene Risser Eshleman and Shirley Suzanne (Hutchinson) Eshleman on May 3, 1956. Gretchen grew up in Florida. She also spent time in Arkansas and Michigan before making Pennsylvania her permanent home. Gretchen knew the value of hard work as she held various positions during her lifetime. She was a janitor and later food service manager at a hospital in Michigan. She was service coordinator at Satec Systems (later Instron) in Grove City, PA. and also at competitor ATS in Butler, PA. She also spent time at USIS (both at Pine Grove Plaza and Lincoln Avenue office building locations) and later NT Concepts, Boyers, PA. as a data entry coordinator, file clerk and administrator. In between she would also clean houses. Gretchen had a heart of gold for those she respected and loved. She loved to laugh with her friends and family. Her laughter, sincerity and wit made it easy for her to make lasting friendships. Gretchen was a wonderful cook and could create a delicious meal from anything on-hand. Gretchen also loved to travel. Gretchen's father, acting as tour guide, once took her on a tour of Europe to see where part of her lineage originated and to also introduce her to some of the people with whom he worked. She once spent a summer in Togiak, AK. to run the company store at a seafood processing facility in which her cousin, Diane "Dixie" was office manager. She also loved spending time at the family cabin in Ligonier, PA. Gretchen loved horses; a life-long gift she received from her grandfather. She loved British television shows and comedies. Gretchen was not only an industrious worker but also keen minded as she earned an associate degree from Butler County Community College. An accomplishment she was very proud of all while maintaining a full time job and taking care of her parents. Gretchen is survived by her companion Kevin Locke, Grove City, PA, an aunt, Christina E Moseley of Columbus, OH. and several cousins including Rebecca Derek of Greensburg, PA. Gretchen had a special place in her heart for the firefighters who protect our communities from the devastation of fires so if you wish to honor her in memoriam, please make a donation to your local fire department. Gretchen's cremains will be interred at a future, privately held ceremony.