Gretchen (Troxel) Ryan , 83, of Telford, PA; formerly of Lansdale, PA, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at her residence.

Gretchen was the loving wife of the late Matthew "Chuck" Ryan for 61 years. She was born in Scottsburg, IN, to the late George Francis Troxel and the late Mignon (Wagner) Troxel.

Gretchen graduated from Richmond High School, Richmond, IN, class of 1958. She attended Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN.

Gretchen was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She worked as a seamstress and tailor for the former Webster's Men's Wear in Montgomeryville, PA. She was a member of the Needlework Guild.

As a faithful member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, Gretchen crafted many gifts for the church members and events. She was excited about the work being done to reach the community, to participate in works of mercy, and to spread the Gospel, including creating Christmas shoeboxes for Samaritan's Purse.

Knitting, sewing, and gardening topped the list of her favorite activities. Gretchen was an avid reader of mystery novels. She enjoyed traveling nationally and internationally, especially spending time at the beach and going to state/national parks. Gretchen and her husband enjoyed many RV trips including a nationwide tour of the US. She also enjoyed baking banana bread to give away, playing card games, watching sports, dining out, and spending time with her family and friends.

Gretchen was a caring, frugal woman who was very generous with her time, talents, and monetary gifts. Most importantly, she loved the Lord and believed that Jesus was her Savior.

Gretchen is survived by her son, Dr. Robert Ryan & wife, Dr. Qin Cao of Silver Spring, MD; her two daughters, Katie Blincoe & husband, John of Seattle, WA, Sarah Benner & husband, Pastor Cedric of Catonsville, MD; her four grandchildren – Bria, Devin, Madison, & Thomas; her brother, Timothy Troxel & wife, Karen of Las Vegas, NV; her three sisters, Kathie Vanos of Pine Valley, CA, Alice Lindborg & husband, Yon of Union Mills, IN, Georgia Brist & husband, Randy of West Lafayette, IN; and her sister-in-law, Debbie Troxel of Richmond, IN.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, George and Ted Troxel.

A Memorial service for both Gretchen & Chuck Ryan will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 2:30 pm at the Rose Chapel located in the Lutheran Community at Telford, 235 N. Washington Street, Telford, PA 18969 followed by a visitation & light refreshments.

Our mom loved bright colors, and we would wish to honor her memory in wearing colorful outfits instead of black. Even though we are sorrowful at her passing, we are joyful at her being in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

Pennridge FISH Organization, 800 W. Chestnut Street, Perkasie, PA, 18944 https://pennridgefish.org/

or Young Life whose mission is to "Introduce teens to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith.

Young Life WA456, P.O. Box 5184, Harlan, IA 51593 https://giving.younglife.org/DonateWA456 .

Arrangements by: Anders-Detweiler Funeral Home & Crematory, 130 East Broad Street, Souderton, Pennsylvania, 18964. To send online condolences to the family, visit www.andersfh.com .