Gretchen Eva Ploeger

Gretchen Eva Ploeger, a devoted educator, impassioned advocate for social justice, and cherished community member, passed away on July 12, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on April 27, 1945, to the late William and Annabelle Ploeger, Gretchen spent her entire life nurturing the growth of those around her.
Gretchen graduated from Capac High School, where the foundation of her passion for education was set and where she met many of her forever friends. After graduating, her journey led her to Michigan State University, where she earned her master's degree. When she became a teacher, she joined the Delta Kappa Gamma sorority and was a lifetime member and chapter president.
Gretchen dedicated over three decades of her life as a second grade teacher at Cleveland School in the Port Huron school district. Her classroom was a sanctuary where every child was recognized and valued for their unique talents. Her students were very important to her and she enjoyed hearing about their journeys and success whenever she ran into them years later.
Gretchen's lifelong commitment to the NAACP was more than just a footnote in her life story; it was a testament to her unwavering compassion. She served as a member of its Executive Committee, the Education Chair, and was a former secretary of the Port Huron Branch. In honor of her lasting impact, the NAACP established a bi-annual award in her name, encouraging others to follow in her footsteps of advocacy and leadership.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Gretchen loved spending time with her family and friends. She cherished her time travelling with close friends to see concerts and movies. Gretchen's nieces and nephews remember her loving nature and how much they enjoyed her company. A quintessential cat lover, Gretchen also avidly supported the local Humane Society and adored time with her cat companions.
Gretchen is survived by her nieces, Linda Ruckman and Diane (Will) Ameen, and her nephews, William, Paul, and David (Becky) Ploeger. She was predeceased by her brothers, William Ernst Ploeger and LeRoy Ploeger and nieces, Kathi Ploeger and Jane Slaughter. She also leaves behind a myriad of friends who loved her dearly.
For those who knew Gretchen, her passing leaves a void but also a profound sense of gratitude for the impact she made on countless lives. She was a mentor, a friend, and an advocate for anyone who dreamed of a better tomorrow.
A celebration of Gretchen's life will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 pm. at Grace Memorial Life Celebration Center, 4521 Ravenswood Road, Kimball Twp, Michigan 48074. A memorial service in her honor will begin at 4:00 p.m.
Memorials are suggested to the NAACP Port Huron Branch or the Blue Water Humane Society. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gretchen, please visit our floral store.