Halfway, Baker County, Oregon
Grace Faye Gwin, named after her great-great-grandmother, Grace Ritter, and great-grandmother Marion Faye Fugit, died at her home in Halfway on Feb. 19, 2006, at the age of 1 month, 17 days.
There will be no funeral.
Grace was born on Jan. 2, 2006, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Baker City. Shortly after her birth, she was flown by medical ambulance to St. Luke’s Hospital in Boise.
It was found after numerous tests, that Grace suffered complications from the rare CMV virus. This virus is one that was contracted early in her mother’s pregnancy which is similar to a bad cold, but affected the fetus.
Grace will always be remembered as a beautiful daughter who came into this world with lots of soft, dark, black hair. Her little nose, pretty blue eyes, the coo noises she would make, her tiny hand wrapping around a finger, enjoying her pacifier, laying on her daddy’s chest or taking her bottle, all hold special memories.
Her parents and extended family expressed appreciation for the time they were able to spend with her. Although
Grace’s life was short, she touched the heart of everyone who was able to know and hold her.
Grace’s parents had aspirations of watching her grow up in Pine Valley. They hoped that she would excel in academics, play softball and be a good pitcher.
Her parents, family and friends gave her an abundance of love.
“Grace, a very beautiful little angel, a true gift, will forever be loved and never forgotten. We miss you Gracie,” her family said.
Survivors include her parents, Jade Peer and Kevin Gwin of Halfway; grandparents, Tom and Melody Huff and Loretta and Richard Gossney; great-grandparents, Stan and Virgene Fugit; and several other great-grandparents, aunts and uncles.
Memorial contributions may be made to the NICU Patient/Family Assistance Fund at St. Luke’s or Pathway Hospice through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 543, Halfway, OR 97834.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, March 3, 2006
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor