Barbara Ann Gruich

Barbara A. Gruich 1926 � 2009 Kingsport, TN � Barbara Ann (Alben) Gruich, 83, a former Westfield area resident, died on Thursday, November 12 at the Lifecare Center of Gray, TN. She was born in Chicago, IL on July 17, 1926, a daughter of the late Robert and Hilda (Broeker) Alben. She was a graduate of Perdue University where she received her degree in Aeronautical Engineering. She was an archivist for many years for the Providence Mother House and Marion Center. She enjoyed singing, drawing, painting, and was a member of the Decorative Artist Society. She is survived by three sons, John Hess, Jr. of Westfield, Earl Baker of Maryland, Robert�Baker of Michigan, four daughters, Cheryl Duprey of Hinsdale, Patricia Jane Cieremans of Michigan, Barbara Lilley of Alabama, and BethAnn Webb of Tennessee. She also leaves twenty two grandchildren, and seventeen great grandchildren. She was predeceased by two sisters, Roberta Alben, and Nancy Alben, and her companion of many years, Edmund J. Salate. Funeral services are on Saturday, November 21 at the Messier Funeral Home, 1944 Northampton St (Route 5) Holyoke, MA with a calling hour�beginning at 9am and a Service of Remembrance at 10am. Burial will follow in Forestdale Cemetery in Holyoke. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name may be directed to the American Cancer Society, New England Division, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. Please visit www.messierfuneralhome.com for online condolences and directions. Messier Funeral Home 532-5491