Jeanne Rae Gross (Hawkinson)

September 22, 1950 – October 7, 2025

Jeanne was born to Ray and Betty Retzlaff in Enumclaw, Washington. She was raised and educated there alongside her siblings Fred and Joyce. She earned a practical nursing degree soon after high school from Green River Community College.

In early adulthood she moved out west for a new adventure farming in the Nebraska panhandle with her husband Gary and infant son, Ian. She loved life on the farm; she was known for being a loving mother, an amazing cook, a devoted wife and a trusted friend to many neighbors. Venessa and Chrissy were later additions to the family.

After many years of farming, she and Gary decided to take the brave step of returning to college in order to better themselves and the lives of their children. She earned a teaching degree from Chadron State College, an accomplishment her children still admire her for. The family then settled in Casper, Wyoming where she held various nursing jobs and a teaching position at NCHS.

Jeanne was a vibrant, independent and loving woman. She was very intelligent and well read. She was a positive influence on her children, grandchildren and many students during her time as a teacher at NCHS (Casper) and at Space Center Intermediate School (Houston, TX). She also held several nursing positions in the Houston area, true to her resourceful and hard-working nature. She loved her children, her grandchildren, flowers, art, poetry and English literature.

Jeanne is survived by her children; Ian(Rachel) Hawkinson, Venessa Yoosook and Chrissy(Ben) Elliott; her grandchildren Penni, Emory, Woodrow, Millie, Jakob, Kobe, her great-grandchildren, River and Harvey; her sister Joyce(Johnny) Peterson, her niece Stacy(Damon), sister-in-law Mary, nephews Rich, Ron and her great-nieces.

 

Per Jeanne’s wishes, she was cremated and no services are planned.

We miss and love you, Mom. We will remember the good times. Rest in Peace.