Gretchen Callinicos

Gretchen Callinicos died peacefully at Saratoga View care center on Friday,

April 24 after a short illness. She leaves behind her loving husband, Peter Callinicos, and many, many friends.

Gretchen was born in Allentown, Pa. on Sept. 11, 1945.

Her family moved to Texas for a brief time, and then to California. She graduated from UCLA with a bachelor of arts degree in sociology and a minor in art. Her social work background included working with troubled youths and dyslexic kids. She got a beautician license in California to be able to work her way through college.

She met her husband Peter in Los Angeles in 1971 after her graduation. Gretchen and Peter moved to Whidbey Island in June of 1974 to settle down after several years of travel and adventure.

She had owned and operated Gretchen’s Hairworks for about 30 years, first in Langley, then in Freeland where it continues with Tae Davis, stylist.

Gretchen was an artist in many media, including fiber- arts, collage, ceramics, jewelry and painting.

She could make something beautiful out of anything she touched.

Her love of gardening and animals, especially her beloved cats, was famous among her friends.

Many thanks to Grethe Cammermeyer and her staff at Saratoga View for making Gretchen’s last weeks as comfortable as possible, and to those who offered their love and support to Peter and Gretchen in many ways.

A celebration of her life and talents will be held at Freeland Hall from 3 to

5 p.m. Sunday, May 17.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to WAIF.