Obituary of Gretchen Van Brakle Shutt

Gretchen Van Brakle Shutt passed away on Thursday, October 5, 2023. 

Gretchen was born September 24, 1929 in Bennington, Vermont to the late Donald and Marion Van Brakle. She attended the University of Georgia and graduated from Cornell University. Gretchen was a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority. In 1951, she married Edwin John "Jack" Gerken and together they raised two children until his early death. In 1979, Gretchen married the late Ervin Franklin Shutt and they enjoyed life traveling throughout the country in their motor home.

Gretchen enjoyed bird watching, gardening, and collecting antique china. She was member of the Trinity United Methodist Church. Gretchen was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother and everyone who knew her will miss her. 

In addition to her parents and her two husbands, she is preceded in death by her son, Brett Gerken and daughter-in-law, Renee Gerken.
Gretchen's memory is forever cherished by her son Kip (Karen) Gerken of Warner Robins; stepson: Frank (Libby) Shutt of South Carolina; two grandchildren: Jamie Gerken and Courtney (Thomas) Walsh; and two step grandchildren: Lee Shutt and Ashley (Jeremy) Thompson; and two great grandchildren: Weston and Cora Walsh.

Please sign the online guest registry at www.heritagemfh.com and leave a personal condolence.
Heritage Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements. Services are private.