Grace R. Gesslein

Today, December 18, 2022, the Angel 9 softball team called their ACE pitcher, Grace Gesslein, 85, of Oxford, NY. In the heavenly stands cheering her on were her mom and dad, Otto and Grace Gesslein; her younger brother, George Gesslein and his wife Wendy, All-Star First Baseman; sister-in-law, Arlene Gesslein; her niece, Ellen Kluk; and her lifelong friend, Aileen Bauer.

A home, cheering her on was her oldest brother and biggest fan, Robert Gesslein. Her softball support squad consisted of her nieces and nephews; Dawn and Jim Hopsicker, Mary and Lou Corsale, Joseph Gesslein and friend Tanya, Michael and Tanya Gesslein, Margaret King and family, John and Tammy Gesslein, Robert Gesslein and friend Rhonda, Diane Gesslein, and Linda Rozell; as well as her great-nieces and nephews, Alyssa and Jeff Nissen, Melany and Zach Myers, Hannah and Daniel Freeman, Josiah Williams, Maya Verry, Jessica King, Karol King, Isaiah and Silas Gesslein. Grace’s youngest and newest fan is Vivian Grace Myers.

Grace was a stellar athlete and a wonderful daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to so many. When not on the field, she spent her time playing BINGO, taking care of her many birds and dogs, bowling, shopping, and watching game shows. She also spent a lot of time with her neighbor and friend, Collen Sackett, getting into trouble at Walmart, working backstage at the Arts Council productions, and mowing lawns. Grace enjoyed eating out and was a regular at many of the local establishments. She LOVED her Whopper Jr.

In today’s game, Angel 9 squashed the Devils in extra-innings in a score of 3-1. God was so pleased with her pitching that he signed her to a Contract for Eternity.

Her fans are welcome to attend a celebration in her honor on Wednesday, January 4th from 10-11:30 a.m. at R.J. Fahy Funeral Home in Norwich, NY. There will be a Funeral Mass following at 12 p.m. in St. Bartholomew’s Church in Norwich, NY.

In lieu of flowers, Grace requested that donations be made to the “Earthly Angels,” Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County. No words could possibly express the thanks for the amazing care and compassion of this team. Donations may be sent to 33-39 Court Street, Norwich, NY, 13815.