Paulette A. Gretter

Paulette Arlene (Detrick) Gretter, 73, died on March 29, 2022, at MercyOne Hospice Care in Johnston. A private family Celebration of Life will be held June 5, 2022, in Des Moines.
Paulette was born February 11, 1949, in Marshalltown to Vernice (Shrader) and Frank Detrick. She attended St. Mary's Catholic School and graduated from Lenihan Catholic High School in Marshalltown.
Paulette made a home in Keota, where she proudly raised two sons, John and James. Throughout her lifetime, she sought out opportunities for community service and was especially proud of her time on the Keota School Board. An avid learner, Paulette continued her education at Kirkwood Community College, graduating with an Associate's in Accounting, and spent many years working seasonally as a tax preparer. In addition, Paulette lived and leaves behind friends in Iowa City and Osage Beach, MO; before calling Ankeny home in 2020. Paulette always put family first and each move was to be closer to family members.
Paulette spent much of her free time with her granddaughters and her precious dogs. She loved hosting her grandchildren at her condominium on the lake, taking her girls shopping and catching up with siblings over a glass of wine. Speaking with her on the phone frequently included her trusty companion, Mellie, barking for attention, or to say hi to whoever was on the other line. Paulette maintained many friendships throughout her years and loved to share funny stories, life lessons, and current events from all the amazing people in her life.
Paulette is survived by her cherished children John Gretter (Sarah) of Iowa City, and James Gretter (Tracy) of Kansas City, MO, her beloved grandchildren Ellie, Chloe, and Camille of Iowa City, siblings Sandra Caligiuri (Chuck), Marvin Detrick (Debbie), Diana Slifer, Janice McNary, Elaine Rund (Rich), Paul Detrick (Michelle), Carol Huff, Sharon Winkel (Tim), brother-in-law Tim Vaughn, and many, many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father Frank Detrick, mother Vernice Detrick, sister Audrey Vaughn, and brother-in-law Dan McNary.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Midwest, (9203 Northpark Drive, Johnston, IA 50131) or to MercyOne Hospice Care, 5820 Winwood Drive, Johnston, IA 50131.
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