Gretchen Stranch

Gretchen Stranch, 57, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14th, surrounded by loving family and friends.

Gretchen was born in Springfield, MA, to Frank J. and Betty A. Stranch. She was born in the middle of a blizzard, on her own terms, and wouldn't have come into this world in any other way. She grew up in East Longmeadow, MA and attended East Longmeadow High School, continuing her education at Bay Path College.

Gretchen dedicated much of her life to a career as a Financial Advisor. She was very successful and a top tier producer in Western Massachusetts and abroad. Her success was attributed to her unwavering commitment to her clients who greatly admired her not only as their advisor but many truly became a lifelong friend. Her kindness, dedication, hard work, and understanding won the hearts of all who had the pleasure to know her.

She was a very talented soccer player, participated in the Miss East Longmeadow Beauty Pageant, spent many years in dance academies, and she undoubtedly lit up the stage during performances. She enjoyed spending time in the sun by her pool and always had the most beautiful tan before anyone else even thought to put their winter coat away. Her dog, Thumper, was always by her side in whatever she did and she loved him more than words could ever express, he was a very spoiled boy and waits by the Rainbow Bridge for her.

Gretchen is survived by her sister, Heidi (Stranch) Gallo and her husband, Joseph, their two boys, her nephews, Joseph and Nicholas, who she adored as her own. Her sister Mardel (Stranch) Geiss and her husband Paul, their children, her nieces and nephew, Jessica, Erica, and Christopher. Gretchen is also survived by Gaetano Santaniello who brought warmth, companionship, and deep affection, filling her days and nights with happiness, laughter, and love.

Gretchen is reunited in heaven with her father Frank J. Stranch, her mother, Betty A. Stranch, and her brother, Joseph F. Stranch.

Gretchen touched countless lives with her warmth and generosity and leaves behind many friends, she loved and cherished each and every one of you.

The Belle of the Ball and the most beautiful of souls taken far too soon. Gretchen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her memory will live on forever in our hearts.