Gertrude Lola Grisham

Gertrude was born on December 13, 1916 to the union of Lloyd and Cora Reese in Waukesha, WI.

She received her formal education at Blair Grade School and West Memorial High, also located in Waukesha.

She accepted Christ as her Savoir at an early age, where she attended Baptist Church – Waukesha.

Gertrude was married to Vernon Flowers in 1935 and moved to Racine, WI.  To this union they were blessed with three daughters, Patricia Juanita, Charlotte Laverne and Victoria Ann.

After her divorce, Gertrude moved to Milwaukee to work.  She met and married Owen Grisham on August 13, 1955.  They were blessed with one daughter, Wendy Kay.

Gertrude joined the Central United Methodist Church in 1957.  She also belonged to two service clubs – The 12-20 Club and the Y’s Menette’s Club, which were the first sponsors of the Ebony Fashion Show held in Milwaukee for many years.  She enjoy playing games, especially bingo, going bowling, visiting the casinos, visiting the horse race track, shopping and spending time with her family.

Two items she was fondly remembered for was her carrot cake that she made for every family gathering and picnic, and her chili, which she made to be served every Monday to patrons at the Eleventh Frame Lounge, which was owned by her and Owen for nine years.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband Owen and daughter Victoria.  She leaves to cherish her memory her three daughters, Patricia (Robert) Roberson, Charlotte Johnson and Wendy (Reginald) Smith, 10 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Memorial Gathering Monday, October 26, 2020 at Krause Funeral Home, 7001 West Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from 11:00 AM until time of service at 12:00 PM.