Washington - On Tuesday, July 27, Gretchen (Randall) Vallade, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, friend passed away at age 68.

Gretchen was born June 19th, 1953 in Renton, Washington to Monroe and Bertha (Hunter) Randall. She grew up in Rainier Beach and attended Emerson Elementary, Rainier Beach High school and Central Washington University where she received her degree in Elementary Education. Gretchen worked as a Mail Carrier for the United States Postal Service where she met her husband to be Floyd Vallade Jr. They were married on August 16, 1978. Together they raised son Floyd III, daughters Lindsey and Christy, and warmly opened their home and hearts to many others including her daughters' high school friend Amanda who became part of the family.

Gretchen was a kind, caring, compassionate person and was always willing to listen to people without judgement. She was very involved with her children's activities including serving as the PTA President for Highland Park Elementary, involved with the All-City Band parent group and participated in school events, field trips, and plenty of fundraisers. Gretchen loved animals and always had an assortment of strays. She also enjoyed bowling and participated in various local leagues.

Gretchen was preceded in death by her father Monroe and her husband Floyd. She is survived by her mother Bertha, her son Floyd, daughters Lindsey (Jacob), Christy (James) and Amanda (DeSean), grandchildren Molly, Andrew and Annalise, plus siblings Michael, Dwayne and Karen and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at Rainier Beach Presbyterian Church 9656 Waters Ave S. on August 14th, 2021 at 1pm. Due to Covid, please wear a mask and maintain social distance.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (fredhutch.org)