Therese Marie Gross

1926 - 2021

Therese Marie Gross
September 17, 1926 - March 30, 2021
Longtime Resident of Scotts Valley
A stubborn Swiss until the end. Therese passed quietly at The Cottages of Carmel, surrounded by the love, support and presence of all those who loved her from near and far.
The fifth of eight children, Therese learned early what hard work and sacrifice meant. Her mother taught her children by example and was known for her compassion and kindness even during a world war. Therese's mother quickly recognized her youngest daughter was a feisty and inquisitive learner and at the height of WWII, Therese attended a girls' school run by French nuns. In 1945, Therese's dreams were put on hold when her precious mother died. It was not until she was 27, could she begin realizing her dream of seeing what life was like on the other side of the alps.
In 1953, Therese arrived in Canada with $25 and speaking little English. After two years, she headed to Los Angeles with plans of traveling next to Africa. Plans changed when Therese met a tall handsome young Swiss who promised her travel adventures - once he became a pilot! They married in 1956. Therese continued working in the bank while Heinz went to school. Soon James arrived, then Diana. In 1968, with job offer in hand, Therese and Heinz moved their family to Scotts Valley where they eventually built their forever home.
As Heinz traveled for work, Therese managed the family. She sewed, knitted and made sure nothing went to waste. She helped clean San Agustin's church, as well as washed and ironed the altar clothes when the church was still only a makeshift chapel in the garage. She confessed she never liked having dirt under her nails, but her backyard was always in bloom, and even became treasurer of the local Rhododendron Society for a number of years. She also discovered she had a strong opinion when it came to politics and attended many local city council meetings. She was a proud American, and despite speaking five languages never seemed to lose the Swiss accent.
Therese worked hard her whole life, and was always thankful for her strict and loving upbringing. Even with her memories fading, she never forgot her family and their love. We will miss her laugh, her stories, her unfaltering love and support, as well as her feisty spirit. We will be forever thankful to have been blessed by her example and allowed the gift of having her as our mom. Love you more!
Therese leaves behind her beloved family in California, Washington, Canada and Switzerland. Thank you to the associates at The Cottages of Carmel and Hospice of the Central Coast for their care and support, especially during the pandemic.
Services will be planned once border restrictions have been lifted.



View the online memorial for Therese Marie Gross