Brian Gratch Obituary

I didn't know Brian well -- our last interaction would have been about 40 years ago -- but heard a few years ago he had passed and was saddened. I just happened on this site and feel compelled to say that -- though, as I said, I didn't know him well -- he made a distinct impression on me as a very generous and warm and open person. Enough that, all these years/decades later I feel sad again.
Gautam Ghosh

I just yesterday by chance learned of Brian's passing, and now, having read the obituary here, learning so much about him that I didn't previously know, I'm especially saddened by his death, particularly because of its impact on what sounds to have been such a wonderful family. I'm sure his survivors are, together, still a wonderful family, but there's now always that big hole, that empty chair.

Brian was someone who lived in my larger neighborhood when I was growing up, and I didn't know him well. But we'd end up in the same sports games or other neighborhood activities. I recall he was one of a goodly number of kids in his family, and I think the majority of those kids were boys. Thoughts of playing sandlot football and hockey in Larimer Park, and a general sense that he lived in a big house -- big for all of those family members.

My most significant interaction with Brian was by complete chance, and what made it so special was his parents, who were dining with him. It was 2010, at the Chinese restaurant on the northeast corner of Oak and Davis, across from the post office. I was visiting Evanston with my Taiwanese wife, Sunny, from whom I was separated, and our son Brian, who was fifteen years old. Sunny and Brian were visiting the States for the first time since 1998, when my parents were still living there.

At the Chinese restaurant, my family's table was just next to and below Brian's and his parents. I saw that his mother was wearing a big, bright orange button which loudly displayed a message that I loved and lived -- and still do live: WAGE PEACE. I inquired about the button, and his mother soon asked if I'd like it, adding, "You can have it, but you have to wear it!" Turns out she and Brian's dad, both major peaceniks, had special-ordered hundreds of the buttons from a company in New York and had spread them far and wide. I moved up to their table and sat and chatted with them and Brian, who was very nice, for a while before returning to Sunny and Brian.

To know Brian's parents were the sort of people I found them to be, and that he'd grown up in a big family in a big Evanston house with them,helps explain much of what's written about Brian in this obituary, and makes me feel all the more sad that death took him away from that family, and them away from him. But fortunately for his kin, and for all of us in this world, Brian was with us for a good, long while, and the imprint of his loving presence will continue to speak to and abide with us. I know I'll continue thinking about him, especially when I put on that WAGE PEACE button.

Dear Michelle,

I am so sorry to see that Brian passed away. You may recall that Brian worked for me at Fel-Pro during his break from school. It was obvious then that he was very gifted and had a wonderful future. His sense of humor and irony always made my day. I am very happy to hear that you have raised a great family.

I'm so glad that our wedding album includes a photo of you and Brian attending Judy and my wedding in December 1987. We are also fortunate to now have two terrific adult children.

Best wishes,

Arnie Fox

What a wonderful tribute to Brian, a man I truly adored. His spirit is something that will carry on to all who knew him. His life should be a model of humanity for all of us.

I am so heartbroken to write these words to the family of Brian Gratch. I was out of town and missed the news of Brian's passing.
I'm holding Brian's business card in my hand with such sadness. I ran into Brian at an industry event in the spring. We were delighted to re-connect. Brian immediately told me that he would pass on greetings to his mother on my behalf. That was Brian... always making the human connection with joy and a smile on his face.
May his memory be a blessing and his joie de vivre a lasting reminder of the gifts he brought to this world.

My sincere condolences to your family for the loss of your love one. May the God of comfort be with you during this sad occasion and may his loving words at John 6:40 console your heart.

Sallie and Alan,

You are two of my most favorite people I have even met in my 50+ years, and of course you shaped the heart of one of the most compassionate, patient, good-humored men I have ever know. Brian brought his laughter, listening ear, and sincere concern everywhere and to everyone, even to young silly girls at slumber parties. I am certain a vacuum of love lost will tug on your hearts for years to come, but assure you that Brian's empathy and spirit of joy will live on in lives far and wide for eternity.

Love to all,

Jen (Wolf) Schuman

I was very saddened to hear the news. I knew Brian and Michelle at Grinnell College. I am sending all my love and support to Michelle, her family and the Gratch family at this difficult time.

Amy Fraenkel, '85

So sorry to learn of your son's passing. My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Iris Wittenberg

Deeply saddened to hear of Brian's untimely passing. Sound like he would have been a wonderful addition to the Arye Labe Cousins Club and wish we could have met him under those circumstances. Know that our thoughts are with the family at this most difficult time.

I knew Brian at Grinnell and can still picture his smile and hear his laugh. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts are with you.

Brian was a bright light to the startup community in Chicago. He always was interested in the success of others and was eager to share advice or encouragement. His leadership will be miss and his friendship will be remembered forever.

I knew Brian from Evanston and Grinnell, and Michelle too. I didn't have many encounters with him -- our circles overlapped but were not the same -- so it is all the more striking that I remember him so vividly. And what I remember is guy who was, indeed, very warm, generous, and also curious and engaged, meaning, he would pop up at events or places I wouldn't expect to find him (or myself, I suppose). There should be more Brian, and more Brians, in our world. Gautam (Ghosh)

I am Jennifer Moran and we were Alley Neighbors as we grew up. Our family on 1100 block of Hinman. My heart is full as I write these words. The Gratch family influence of of smart, caring, full of ideas and rich connections is evident. I did not know Brian as an adult very well, but I knew him as his core values and optimism referenced above were being nurtured. I know his life was full until he was gone. Hinman Avenue sends support and care to Judson Ave. through memory and abiding affection as you navigate this unexpected loss. Love surrounds you at this difficult time.

So sorry for your loss, Michelle. Our deepest condolence to you and your family.

So very sorry for your loss...take comfort in knowing Mr. Gratch made a good name for himself. Our heavenly Father does take notice of the good we do. Proverbs 22:1 ; 1 Samuel 2:3.

Sorry for your loss, Michelle. Condolences to you, your children, extended family and friends. May Brian's memory be a blessing.

I will miss Brians smiling face. He always made the world a happier place.

Wendy and I, and our family, send our very deepest condolences.

I'm so saddened to hear of Brian's passing. May his memory be for a blessing.

Please accept my condolences during this difficult time. Mr. Gatch certainly lived a full life and from the words chosen to describe him, I know he was loved and will be missed dearly. I hope you will draw closer to one another as a family and also draw closer to God through prayer and His promises for our lost loved ones.
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Sincere and heartfelt condolences.

My deepest sympathies to your family may the promise found at John 6:40 comfort your hearts.