Claudine Marilyn Renz Grady

Claudine Marilyn Renz Grady, 89, wife of the Rev. Charles W. Grady, died March 15, 2013. She lost her vision at an early age. As a child she became an expert knitter, fluent in Braille, and a gifted pianist. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. When she married Charles he was a radio announcer. As a young wife, she reared two children, took care of the house, and participated in civic and musical affairs. It was Claudine’s influence that brought the Gradys to Unitarianism. She loved making friends, and was a dedicated bridge player, aided by Braille-marked cards and a phenomenal memory. For Claudine “life began at 40,” when she learned to work with a guide dog for greater independence. It was a successful venture, and she owned and loved a series of dogs for the rest of her life. In 2010, increasing ill health forced them to move to Minnesota to live with family. Claudine was afflicted by dementia and declining health. The Gradys were together for more than 65 years. Notes of remembrance may be sent to Charles W. Grady, 8714 Second Ave. South, Bloomington, MN 55420.