Isabel A. Gehr

Isabel A. Gehr, 99, the widow of the Rev. Harmon M. Gehr, died October 7, 2013. The Gehrs served the Throop UU Church in Pasadena, CA for 19 years.

Her daughter, Julia Nelson, reflected on her mother’s sense of adventure. “She was fearless, whether it was speaking out on an issue, camping alone or trying a new recipe. She passed on to her children the idea that they could do anything they set out to do.”

Isabel spent the end of her life in Portland, Oregon with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She had a constant stream of company.  Julia said, “She didn’t have a single meal alone once she was there. She knew she was not going to last ‘til her 100th birthday. And she also knew that she’d not see all of her beloved possessions again and she just let it go, so she could relax and enjoy the family and the love surrounding her. She said goodbye to us all and told us not to worry about her, but also to remember her when she was young and vibrant and strong, not old and infirm. She remained alert and cheerful until she took her last breath.”

Julia recalled that Isabel told her family many times that when she and her husband were camping in Canyon de Chelley in Chinle, AZ, she had a vision of a large white bear who told her that everything would be all right. She kept a small plush polar bear with her all the time she was in Portland. Julia said, “The bear is with her now, next to her blue urn. At our Christmas gathering we will share memories, with all of us present. In the spring her ashes will be scattered on her son Elliott’s land in Eugene, near her husband and daughter, as she requested.”

She continued, “Thanks to everyone who admired, respected and loved her. She was a strong and unique person and we all feel lucky to have had her around for almost 100 years!”

There was a memorial service to celebrate her life on Nov. 23 at Throop UU Church, in Pasadena. Notes of condolence may go to her daughter: Julia Nelson, 85710 Doane Rd., Eugene, OR 97402.