(1941 Graduate Of Archbold High School)
Gretchen Annette Heer, age 102, of rural Stryker, passed away Jan. 27, 2026, at her home. Gretchen worked as a registered nurse for Dr. Murbach for many years.
She was born Sept. 13, 1923, in Archbold to the late Gerald and Almeda (Beck) Spoerle. She graduated from Archbold High School in 1941. On Sept. 21, 1946, she married the love of her life, Ralph, who preceded her in death in 2014.
Gretchen enjoyed knitting and gardening, and she loved sitting on the back porch watching nature. She and Ralph were members of St. John’s Christian Church in Archbold.
Surviving are many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; son, Joe Heer; daughter, Susan Richards; and her parents.
Visitation will be Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. John’s Christian Church. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at the church, with Pastor Erich Christman officiating. Private burial will be in Archbold Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Christian Church, Archbold, or Elara Caring Hospice. Online condolences may be offered at www.grisierfh.com. The Grisier Funeral Home of Archbold is honored to serve the Heer family.