Born on April 26, 1932 in Lincoln, Nebraska to Arvid and Abbie Eyth, Gracia carried her Nebraska roots with pride throughout her life. She graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1954 and was a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, where she was a Mortar Board and following graduation continued to be involved in the Omaha Alumnae group. In Omaha, Gracia worked at Erickson Sederstrom law firm and was also active in the Junior League of Omaha, where her generous heart and commitment to community shone brightly. She was also a founding member of La Dance Club in 1959 at The Blackstone Hotel.
Gracia had a deep and enduring love of reading and music, which she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She was “Gaga” to them, and her home was always filled with music and laughter ringing through the house. She believed in the power of stories and songs to bring people together—and they often did.
Gracia was a Husker through and through, no matter what the sport, and held season football tickets for an incredible 75 years. Saturdays in the fall were sacred, filled with Husker pride and family traditions. She was an authentic Nebraskan.
She is survived by her loving children: Linda Naticchioni, Julie O’Connell, and Mark Hasebroock (Jane); 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; her brother, Bob Eyth; her sister-in-law, Joyce Eyth and numerous nieces and nephews.
Through her marriage to William Henkle, Gracia also shared her life with children Judy Barlett (Hugh) and Doug Henkle as well as 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Arvid and Abbie Eyth, her brother, William Eyth, her sisters-in-law, Janet Eyth and Julie Eyth and by Robert Hasebroock and William Henkle.
In her later years, Gracia lived at Pine Lake and was lovingly cared for by her devoted and dear friend, Sue McArtor, whose presence brought comfort, and joy to her life. The family is deeply grateful for Sue’s extraordinary care.
Gracia’s life was defined by warmth, curiosity, and a joyful spirit. She leaves behind a family who adored her, friends who cherished her, and a legacy of love that will continue for generations.
Services to honor Gracia’s memory will be held at Roper & Sons, 3950 Hohensee Drive (40th & Yankee Hill) in Lincoln, on Sat., Oct. 11th at 11:00 AM with a lunch reception afterwards.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in her honor would be appreciated to Rho Chapter, Kappa Alpha Theta, 1010 Lincoln Mall, Suite 300, Lincoln, NE 68510.
Link to Service Recording: