Gretchen Ann MacVenn

With hearts full of gratitude and smiles that mirror hers, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Gretchen Ann MacVenn, who left this world on November 12, 2025, exactly as she lived it-peacefully at home in Naples, Florida, wrapped in love, surrounded by her devoted daughter and son-in-law; Melissa and James, her partner Tom Gray, and cherished friends.

Born in Rockford, Illinois in 1958 to Elsie (Champagne-Brick) and Lowell Harold Brick, Gretchen brought light wherever she went from day one. A proud graduate of Boylan Catholic High School (Class of 1976), she carried that same spark into a remarkable 30-year career as an aerospace engineer-proof that brilliance, determination, and a radiant smile can literally reach the stars.

Gretchen married Harry MacVenn and together they welcomed two children who were the joy of her life: Melissa MacVenn-O'Meara and Greg MacVenn. In 2017 she traded Midwest winters for the sunshine of Naples, Florida, just to be closer to Melissa and her adored grandchildren Auggie and Realie. If you ever wondered what pure happiness looks like, it was Gretchen with those little ones in her arms-she was the most devoted, fun-loving "Grammy" anyone could wish for.

Life was never dull with Gretchen around. She roared down the highway on motorcycles, pieced together breathtaking heirloom quilts that will warm her family for generations, explored the world with her adventurous friends, and created stunning stained-glass artwork that caught the light just like her spirit did. Her energy was contagious, her smile unstoppable, and even in her final days she greeted everyone with the same positivity and grace that defined her.

Gretchen is survived by her daughter Melissa MacVenn and her children Augustus and Aurelia; son Greg MacVenn and his son, baby Keith; sisters Leslie James and Margo Dutton; her loving partner Tom Gray; and a wide circle of friends who feel more like family.

Following her wishes, Gretchen will be cremated. A celebration of her beautiful life will be held in Winnebago, Illinois, at a later date and time to be announced-because even now, she's making sure everyone has time to gather, laugh, and share stories the way she loved.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Avow Hospice of Naples in Gretchen's name. It would make her smile knowing the care and kindness she received will help others.

Gretchen lived with joy, loved without measure, and left the world brighter than she found it. Her light endures in every heart she touched.