Gretchen A. Henson, age 80, a resident of Belmont Village in Carol Stream, IL, died Saturday, September 16, 2017, at home. She was born January 22, 1937 in Columbus, OH.

First and foremost, Gretchen was passionate about her love of Jesus Christ and it showed in every area of her life. She graduated from The Ohio State University and was a lifelong fan of the Buckeyes. She attended Wheaton Bible Church and was involved in a number of ministries there. She taught preschool at Agape Preschool in Warrenville for 14 years. After growing up the daughter of a theater critic in Columbus, one of her favorite pastimes was going to the theater. She was also active in the Christian Women's Club where she started and led Bible studies with them for 40 years. She was known for her kind heart and gentle spirit. She always put others before herself.

She is survived by her two children, Michael Henson of Glen Ellyn, IL, and Leslie (Todd) Bauer of Wheaton; and seven grandchildren, Emily, John Henry, Jacob, Haley, Avery, Brady and Finley.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Jack.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, September 29, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., in Wheaton, IL. Interment will be private at Wheaton Cemetery .

Memorial gifts may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association , 225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.