Obituary of Gladys Ketchum

Gladys "Kit" Tajchman Ketchum, died peacefully in her home on July 9, 2021.  She was born in Durum, Kansas on Oct. 14, 1923.  Gladys was married for 54 years to Chauncey Robert Ketchum (deceased).  Her younger sister Vera Ketchum survives her, along with her brother in law, Malcom Ketchum.  She had five children, one of who Michael R. Ketchum, is deceased.  Her remaining children are Joy Ketchum Cook, Sharon Ketchum Wahl, Steven Robert Ketchum and Margaret "Peg" Ketchum Cologgi. 

Gladys was known by her nickname of Kit, given to her by her husband.  Kit graduated from college with a degree in business administration.  She moved to Washington, DC during World War II and having earned a top secret clearance, worked as an administrative assistant in the war crimes division.  After marriage Gladys and Robert eventually moved to upstate NY.  Most of her remaining years she was a resident of Clifton Park, NY.  Over the years while raising her family she had a number of other business related positions.  She had been a floral designer at Garden Gate Florist in Clifton Park for many years. 

     The most important part in her life was her family; she was for her lifetime, the glue that kept everyone together.  She was so proud of each of her children and loved every one of her 16 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.  Her other major passion was gardening.  Gladys treasured the simple pleasures of life.  She played the piano from ear, loved singing, dancing, traveling and enjoyed painting.  She was a veracious and inquisitive reader.  She had a big heart for others and devoted many volunteer hours to the public library and local food bank; she would often crochet blankets for mothers in need.  Gladys (Kit) was a devoted Catholic and served as a lay minister.  She had a generous caring and giving heart.  She made a huge difference in many people's lives through her simple gifts of kindness and caring.  She is already greatly missed.

     Funeral will be held on Sat. morning at 9:00 am at St. Mary's Church in Ballston Spa where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated.

     Calling hours will be from 4-7 pm Friday in the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home, 1550 Rt. 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065.

     Interment will be in Jonesville Cemetery, Jonesville, NY

     Memorial contributions may be made to JUMC Food Panrty, 963 Main St. Clifton Park, NY 12065 or to the Clifton Park/Halfmoon Library, 475 Moe Rd. Clifton Park, NY 12065.