Gretchen Mary York Ziegler

Gretchen Mary Ziegler, 78, died in Halifax July 18. She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Rod, brothers Graham, Evan, niece Lauren, nephew Stephen. She was predeceased by mother Kathleen, father Greg, sister Alyson, and son William Gregory.

Gretchen was born, raised and educated in Halifax. After attending King’s College and completing journalism courses at Mount Saint Vincent Summer School, she began a 30-year career in the newspaper business. Her byline was Gretchen Pierce. She worked for the Halifax Chronicle-Herald in a variety of beats, including reporter, Arts & Entertainment writer, critic/reviewer, and she ran the Herald’s western Canada bureau, based in Edmonton.

She then joined the Edmonton Journal where she worked as reporter, editorial writer and columnist. Gretchen wrapped up her career at the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, producing 10 years’ worth of its tabloid monthly, Commerce News – a labour of love. She wrote the Chamber’s 100th Anniversary Commemorative in 1989.

Gretchen retired to Halifax and pursued a variety of interests, worked in her beloved garden, and closely and keenly followed the cut and thrust of politics and world events. She offered her views and opinions, at the drop of a hat, with the same distinctive combination of acerbic candor and sensitivity that marked her writing throughout her colourful life.

No service by request.