Gretchen Renee (Hawkins) DeStefano was born April 4, 1977, in Washington, MO; the daughter of Bill Hawkins and Peggy (Maciejewski) Hoemann. Gretchen passed away peacefully Thursday, November 14, 2024, at the age of 47 years.

Gretchen always had a smile on her face as she dashed around town on her scooter.  She never met a stranger and was happy to talk to anyone she came across. She enjoyed going out to eat and being outdoors.  Gretchen loved her family tremendously and one of the activities she loved was attending the annual carnival to watch her son on rides. Her greatest joy and light of her life was her son, Kai, and she treasured every single moment spent with him.  She cherished the time spent with her family and friends, and she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Gretchen was preceded in death by her father, Bill Hawkins.

She is survived by her husband, James DeStefano of Union; her parents, Peggy and David Hoemann of Union; her son, Kai DeStefano of Union; eight siblings: Crystal Courtouise and husband Ronnie of Gerald, Jennifer Palmer and husband Scott of St. Clair, Rachel Miller of St. Clair, Billy Hawkins of Cuba, Bobby Hawkins and wife Patresa of St. Clair, Marie Wettling and husband Josh of Union, Catherine Lackey of Union, and David Hoemann, Jr. of Union; and many other relatives and friends.

Memorials in honor of Gretchen DeStefano can be made to the family for funeral expenses (c/o Peggy Hoemann).