Grayce Ellen Vanerio

Grayce Vanerio September 25, 1932 February 23, 2014 Grayce took the hand of God in the early hours of Sunday, February 23rd, peacefully leaving this earth. She was loved by many and will be missed by all. She joined her husband Bud, parents Margaret and Bob, and all other friends and relatives who preceded her. Grayce grew up in Chicago, IL on Mozart Street with her younger brother Jon and her dear friends Bev and Patty. From an early age, Grayce was a leader/organizer, and displayed an unending love for children. In fact, she met her husband Bud Vanerio because she was the babysitter for his younger brother and sister. Bud and Grayce married in 1952 at Grace Church in Chicago. They were an outgoing couple with strong friendships. They were always connecting with relatives and friends from high school, church, work, and the neighborhood. Grayce was an amazing leader, orchestrating vacation bible schools, Sunday school, and her high school class reunions. They raised four children, and then in 1984, with a newly empty nest, they moved to Grapevine, TX when Bud accepted a promotion. They loved Grapevine, and quickly became "Texans". While Mom waited patiently for grandchildren, she immersed herself into the Preschool at their church in Texas. She was "Miss Grayce" and was so proud of all those children. She contributed 19 years at the school. Once again, Bud and Grayce cultivated deep and lasting friendships in Texas. Their favorite activity was traveling, and Bud and Grayce saw the world. They loved to meet people from all countries and cultures, including Japan, Turkey, Egypt, Panama, and all over Europe. In fact, they even spent several weeks in China teaching English to Chinese students a highlight in their lives. In the later years Grayce battled dementia, but her true spirit of love and graciousness was always present. She touched the lives of so many, and she will live in our hearts forever. She is survived by her brother Jon Dickson, son Marc Vanerio and wife Robin, daughter Gale Graeff and grandson Gary Graeff, daughter Janis Jasinsky with husband Jeff and grandson Trevor, and son Matt Vanerio with granddaughter Amber. You are invited to share a special memory of Grayce. Thanks to all for your love and support. If so compelled, a donation to the Alzheimer's Association would be an amazing way to honor Grayce.

Grayce Ellen Vanerio

September 25, 1932 - February 23, 2014