Gloria Whiting

Gloria Ann (Keck) Whiting was born on August 18, 1930 in Alexandria, MN to Emil and Olga (Tesch) Keck.  She grew up in Alexandria and was the oldest of 4 siblings. She was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church.  The family moved to North Dakota for a period of time, moving back to Alexandria when Gloria was in the third grade.

During High School Gloria worked at McKay’s grocery, sang in the girls sextet and graduated from Alexandria High School in 1948.

On October 15, 1950 Gloria and Wayne Whiting were married at Zion Lutheran Church. They were blessed with five children. Gloria worked hard on the farm, including milking cows and growing a large vegetable and flower garden. Gloria had many hobbies including singing, gardening, painting, sewing, decorating and cooking. She was very active in 4-H, a cub scout leader, sewing club, and served as a member of the Zion church choir for over 50 years.  She also sang for many weddings, baptisms and funerals.

She was a dedicated wife and mother. Known by her family and friends as a caring woman and wonderful cook, she served and entertained numerous reunions and celebrations over the years. The door was always open and she welcomed everyone. Gloria began a Real Estate career in 1978 working alongside Wayne.  She quickly became one of the top Realtors in the area. After 36 years in the profession, at the age of 84, she retired.

In her seventies, she was a member of the Runestone Rockets, a local dance line and loved performing. Gloria was known for her quick wit, her big smile and a great sense of humor, many times she was seen and heard laughing with family and friends.  She was a beloved grandmother and great grandmother. She loved having the kids over and would do many activities with them. You could often find her and the kids in the kitchen enjoying homemade food and having meaningful conversations.

Gloria passed away at home on October 11, 2019 at the age of 89.  She is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband Wayne of 69 years. Five Children; Brian Whiting of Alexandria, Brenda Olson (Donn) of Hoffman, Steven Whiting(Joyce) of Alexandria, Todd Whiting of Carlos and Gayle Whiting of Minnetonka. Sisters Marlys Hewitt of Salt Lake City, Utah, Arlene Lyman of Maple Grove, and Charles Keck(Barb) of Burnsville. Gloria is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday October 16, 2019 at Anderson Funeral home from 4-7 PM. Funeral Services will be Thursday at 11:00 at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria, with visitation one hour prior. Rev. Don Wilke officiating.  Interment will be at the Evergreen Cemetery in Alexandria.