Gretchen B. Burch

Gretchen Bailey Burch, Loving Mother and Philanthropist passed away Thursday, December 1, 2016 while in residence at Porter Hills Village.  Born to Johanne and Gordon Bailey, an only child, bright, curious, and independent.  Gretchen graduated from Ottawa Hills High School and Hillsdale College.  Her life expanse was through the Twenties, the Depression, World War II, the Cold War, the Vietnam War, the war in Bosnia and the Middle East conflicts.  Some of us can recall those periods of history, which as in her youth contributed to her character, courage, strength, and frugality.  During this time Gretchen supported herself by modeling nylon stockings, a new creation, a clear stocking for woman.  Armand, her future husband, met her at Junior College, he wanted to marry during the War, but Gretchen insisted they wait.  During this time Gretchen worked at the Secretary of State Office for the State of Michigan.  Armand served as an Air Force Bomber Pilot over Africa and Europe. They married on July 20, 1946 and moved to Beechwood Drive in EGR. Her successful career ended after marriage as Armand said, he would support her.  She became a housewife and mother of two children.  Five years later the family moved to Pinecrest Avenue in East Grand Rapids. Gretchen was the wife of Armand F. Burch of the John K. Burch Company (Burch Fabrics) in Grand Rapids.  Son, John & Pamela Burch, President continues owning and operating the company today.  Gretchen also has a loving and caring daughter, Cindy. Gretchen was an avid golfer, bowler, and bridge player.  She enjoyed traveling throughout the United States on vacations with her family.  She was on the Mary Free Bed Board, and a member of Cascade Hills Country Club.  She was a member of the East Congregational Church in Grand Rapids for many years. For the past twenty plus years Gretchen has resided at Porter Hills Village.  Here she would be recognized in the Emporium as she worked as a cashier.  She loved to play bridge and completed word search puzzles daily.  She will be missed by her friends and family. The family would like to thank the Private Duty ladies who took care of her in the final months and Emmanuel Hospice.

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