St. Paul, Minnesota - GRACE GILMER (GG)

THE ART OF ENGAGEMENT

34,769 days

Grace's book of days were filled with a flurry of activity highlighted in blue, yellow, pink, and green. It didn't matter the time of night for making a phone call that would set into motion the logistics for gathering friends...friends who would soon fuse into family. She was known for her ability to connect, to engage. Because of her gift, childhood friends remained steadfast over ninety years, old neighbors stayed in touch, and wives who lost husbands continued to meet every week. Because 'you cannot say no to Grace,' others were not allowed to stay at home. She would find ways to get them there, even after she was no longer driving at 94. She lived and breathed the art of engagement - informing the curious, embracing the passionate, and driving debate. Joyous occasions are remembered with good food and her favorite brand of scotch. Life was about bringing people together-she knew no strangers. Being the conduit, expanding the social network, became her life's work. She was the essential link for countless relationships. Without her, many will lose those days. Inspired by her, others will create them.

GG lived a vibrant social life. She passed away on August 15, 2025, from pancreatic cancer, and survived decades of pain from scoliosis. You would never know. She was a warrior to the end. In her final days, as friends and family surrounded her bed, she sprang back to life. In her final moments, with her head lifted high as if in perpetual song, she joined the celestial choir. Love you, Mom - Robin and Lark Gilmer (daughters), Molly (granddog). Love you, Grace - Mary (Bothmann) Flom (sister), and many, many more.

Celebration of life will be announced in the months ahead.