Grace Elaine Forch

Grace Elaine Forch, of Longbranch, passed away Sept 28. She was 81.

Born May 21, 1944, to Henrietta Hale and Charles Peyton in Prineville, Oregon, Grace grew up in Tacoma, the eldest of three children.

She attended Lincoln High School before transferring to Mount Tahoma, where she graduated. She married Gary Gjerstad in 1962, and they had three children: Kristin, Kevin, and Kurtis.

Elaine was a devoted mother who worked hard to provide for her family and to find the bright side of every situation. She often organized countless adventures and holiday events for family and friends with her beloved sister and lifelong friend, Pattie. As a longtime member of Temple Baptist Church, Elaine served in many roles. She and Pattie led a thriving Awana children’s program together. Elaine loved singing in the choir and performing in cantatas. She taught Sunday school and was well-known for the stories she told in her classes.

In 1973, Elaine began working at Tacoma Baptist School, which her children, nieces, and nephews attended. Over the years, she wore many hats — managing the student center, substitute teaching, and coaching volleyball — all while she continued her education at Washington Baptist Teachers College.

Following the close of her first marriage, Elaine began a new chapter with the City of Tacoma, where she rose to serve as administrative manager for the Streets and Grounds Division. She took great pride in her work, particularly her contributions to the Community Schools Program and Employee Development initiative.

Elaine married Harrold Forch in 1977, and in 1983, they moved to their home in Longbranch, where they were active members of the Lakebay Community Church for more than 40 years.

Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, Harrold, and brother Michael Peyton. She is survived by her sister, Pattie Williams; daughter, Kristin Miller (Dean); son, Kevin Gjerstad (Kathrine); stepson, Hal Forch (Donna); step-daughter, Susannah Rosener; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A combined celebration of life for Elaine and Harrold will be held Dec. 6 at Lakebay Community Church at 10 a.m.