Gretchen C. Rhein, age 77, of New Market, died suddenly December 31, 2015, at her home.  Gretchen was born November 22, 1938, in New Prague, MN to James E. and Rose A. (Pikal) Simon.  She attended St. Wenceslaus Catholic School, New Prague High School, and graduated with a degree in Nursing from St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Minneapolis, MN.  Gretchen married George T. Rhein on October 17, 1959, at St. Wenceslaus Church in New Prague.  The couple raised their family of 5 boys in Eagan, MN and retired to New Market in 1999.  Gretchen was very active in her church and was a member of the Christian Mothers Ladies Guild, Fatima Apostolate, Blue Army, and Marian Movement of Priests.  Gretchen’s top priority was her family; she carried on the family tradition of kolacky baking and making dumplings, teaching her grandchildren the art of those Czech delicacies.  She made blankets and pillows for the grandchildren as well.  Gretchen’s social skills saw her entertaining priest friends for many dinners and attending all the grandchildren’s athletic and concert events.  She loved playing cards, camping, and going to the lake.

Gretchen is survived by her husband, George, of New Market; sons, Scott (Lisa) of New Market, Martin (Marcia) of Burnsville, Michael (Annette) of Savage, Joel (Debbie) of Andover, Randall (Connie) of Lakeville; sister, Jo Ann Doyle of New Prague; 14 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Rose (Pikal) Simon; brother-in-law, James R. Doyle.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, January 4, 2016, at 11:00 AM at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in New Market with Father Christopher Schofner officiating.  Visitation will take place Sunday, January 3rd from 4 – 8  PM at Bruzek Funeral Home and Monday morning from 10 – 11 AM at church.  Burial will occur at St. Nicholas Cemetery followed by lunch in the church basement.