Gretchen (Backes Lichtenwalner) Vercauteren passed away peacefully on April 28. She was born on May 6, 1942 in Meridan, CT to Frederick and Jean (Shirley) Backes. Gretchen was predeceased by her brother Frederick (Rick) Backes. Gretchen graduated from St. Margaret's School in Waterbury, CT. She stayed connected to her alma mater and St. Margaret’s friends throughout her life. She enjoyed a long, exciting career working with the public. Gretchen was chosen as one of the three original Hi-Neighbor! girls, worked at WRKO, Channel 7, and for thirty years, American Airlines. She loved her time with AA and took great pride in her work and relationships. She had many customers who became friends, and coworkers who became family. After retiring, Gretch was able to fulfill a life-long desire to ride horses. She was happiest when she was at the farm, spending time with her horses and barn family. Gretchen is survived by her beloved husband, Robert N. Vercauteren of Rochester, NH, step-children, Noel J. N. (Vercauteren) McCann (Sean P. McCann), of Jericho, VT, Geoffrey J. A. Vercauteren (Christine A. (Mayer) Vercauteren), of North Chelmsford, MA, and three adored grandchildren, Carter Vercauteren, Mairead McCann, and Conor McCann. No memorial services are planned. Gretchen loved her rescue dogs and believed strongly in saving shelter dogs’ lives. If you would like to make a donation to your local rescue organization in her name, we know she would appreciate it.