Gretchen Butzow Perry

Gretchen Butzow Perry

August 8, 1955 – July 16, 2025

Gretchen Butzow Perry, 69, of St. Joseph, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025 12:35 A.M. at Carle Hospital, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on August 8, 1955, in Urbana, Gretchen grew up on the family farm—a place she would always consider her favorite in the world. It was there that her deep love for animals blossomed. From spiders to chipmunks, raccoons to cats, every creature was a treasure to her, and she cared for them all with gentle devotion.

That same spirit extended to the people in her life. Gretchen had a rare ability to see the best in everyone she met. She took people at their word, trusted freely, and invested herself wholeheartedly in others. While some may have seen her openness as naïveté, it was in fact a profound generosity of spirit—one that found joy in lifting burdens, celebrating others' happiness, and making the world a little kinder for those around her.

Gretchen poured this generous heart into her work as an elementary school teacher at St. Joseph Elementary, where she taught for many years, following in the footsteps of her beloved mother, Marjorie. Teaching was not just her profession—it was her calling. She delighted in what made each child unique—their strengths, quirks, and passions—and was unwavering in her commitment to helping them succeed. She rejoiced in their accomplishments and worked hard to equip them with the tools to overcome obstacles that would otherwise have held them back. She was always brainstorming ways to improve the educational system.

Gretchen earned her undergraduate degree in education from Illinois State University in December 1976. She was named to the Dean's List in each of her seven semesters and graduated with honors. She later earned a master's degree in education from the University of Illinois.

Beyond her family, Gretchen was deeply loved by a circle of lifelong friends. Her tight-knit teaching cohort, bonded through years of nurturing young minds (and occasionally bucking administrators, as the best educators are wont to do), remained fiercely loyal. She also cherished her friendship with Kathy Bretzlaff, her best friend since junior high, which endured through time and distance. Gretchen and Kathy traveled the world together. Gretchen also shared a decades-long bond with her dear neighbor Judy Tevebaugh, whose presence brought daily joy and comfort. And finally there was Tony Haley, her beau over whom she swooned. 

Gretchen is survived by her sister Karen Butzow Young; her brothers Charles Butzow (Mary Waters Butzow) and Thomas Butzow (Marguerite Maron Butzow); and by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who adored their Aunt Gretchen with all their hearts. Each one carries with them countless fond and funny memories to hold close. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Marshall Reese Butzow and Marjorie Carson Butzow.

A celebration of Gretchen’s life will be held at noon on October 5 at Homer Lake. And yes, Mountain Dew will be served in her honor. May the ‘Dew runneth over.

She loved classic television—Star Trek, Matlock, Gunsmoke, and countless others. She frequently neglected her cell phone, much to the exasperation of those trying to reach her, but to the delight of those lucky enough to be in her physical presence. Her humor, quirks, and unapologetic love for the things she enjoyed are part of what made her so beloved. Her memory will live on in every life she touched—with compassion, curiosity, silliness, and a deep and enduring love.

In Lieu of Flowers

Please consider making a donation in Gretchen’s memory to your local animal shelter or public school. Even more, honor her by bringing a little lightness and gentleness into the world. Love first and ask questions later—just as Gretchen would. And if, in doing so, you drive your family a bit crazy with your hopeful naïveté, she’d smile and probably give you a good grade.