Gladys Louise Lynch (née Jessen)

July 13, 1929 – October 6, 2025

Gladys Louise Lynch, age 96, went to her heavenly home on October 6, 2025.  

Born on July 13, 1929, to immigrant parents, the late Freda and Andrew Jessen.  Gladys was the sixth of seven children and the last surviving sibling in her close-knit family. She married Harry Lynch, and together they raised four children, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

Gladys loved her career in accounting at JCPenney’s for 22 years, where her attention to detail and gentle demeanor earned her the admiration and friendship of many. Her generous spirit extended far beyond her work—she lovingly crafted quilts for CEAP (Community Emergency Assistance Programs), offering warmth and comfort to those in need through her beautiful handiwork.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—curling up with a good book, solving crossword and jigsaw puzzles, a round of golf, and, most especially, tending to her garden. She found deep satisfaction in watching things grow—flowers, vegetables, and most of all, the lives of those she loved.

Gladys will be remembered for her kindness, joy, and the grace with which she lived her life. Gladys always looked put together and chic. Her taste and style were always impeccable.  She truly embodied the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” (Luke 6:31). Her gentle heart and caring nature left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She is survived by her loving children: Sandra Auld; Barbara Watson (Gary); and Rebecca Norton (fiancé Phil Schelitzche).

Grandchildren: Eric Auld; Benjamin Watson (Emily); Marie Weinbel (Morgan); Joseph Norton (Tori); Angela Norton (Hayden Lundborg); and Rachael Norton.

Great-grandchildren: Robert Thomas, Daniel Thomas (Jenna), Jacob Thomas, and Patrick Norton.

Gladys also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.  

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry Lynch; her son, Harry Thomas Lynch Jr.; and her granddaughter, Erin Thomas.

True to her warm and loving nature, Gladys never said “goodbye”—only “bye-bye for now.”

A celebration of Gladys’s amazing life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

Service at 12:00 p.m., with a luncheon to follow.

Pastor Laura Kozamchak will officiate.

Vadnais Heights Event Center

3565 Labore Road

Vadnais Heights, MN 55110

(Entrance is around the back from Jimmy’s Grill)

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: 

CEAP (Community Emergency Assistance Programs)

In memory of Gladys Lynch

7051 Brooklyn Blvd

Brooklyn Park, MN 55428