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UPDATE: A graveside service for Gretchen Elizabeth Ovist will be held 11:00 am Saturday, May 23, 2026, in the Mt. View Cemetery of South Range, with Pastor Ernest Bylkas III officiating.
Gretchen Elizabeth Ovist, 71, a resident of South Range, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025, at Canal View — Houghton County, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.
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Gretchen was born on October 17, 1954, in Hancock, to the late William and Viola (Luoma) Congdon. She was a graduate of Hancock High School with the class of 1972. After graduation, Gretchen worked as a waitress at the Kaleva Cafe and the Copper Kettle, where her warm smile and friendly nature made her a favorite among customers.
On October 2, 1976, she married Gene Ovist and devoted herself to raising their three children, a role she cherished above all else. When her children were grown, Gretchen returned to the workforce as the jewelry specialist at Shopko. She later finished her career at Pat’s IGA in Hancock. Gretchen found joy in the outdoors. She loved snowshoeing, walking, and the beauty of each season. Time with family was her greatest treasure. She especially enjoyed concerts, comedy shows, and relaxing with a good puzzle. Her laughter, warmth, and adventurous spirit will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Gretchen bravely faced the challenges of Dementia, and she was supported by her devoted family every step of the way.
She was preceded in death by her parents. Gretchen is survived by her husband, Gene Ovist of South Range her children: Justin (Linda) Ovist of Madison, WI Allison (John) Longenecker of South Range Lance Ovist of Yorba Linda, CA her grandchildren: Lana, Landon, Lucas, and Laura She was further survived by many dear friends.
A funeral service for Gretchen will be held at 4 pm on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Range Apostolic Lutheran Church in South Range with Pastor Chuck Bylkas officiating. Spring burial will be held in the Mt. View Cemetery in South Range.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 2 pm until the time of the services at the church.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Almahrous and the staff at Canal View– Houghton County and Canal View’s Woodland Haven for all the support they have provided over the years.
To view this obituary or to send condolences online to the family, please visit www.memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Mt. View Chapel of South Range is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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