Gladys Mae (Pike) Sawatzky, age 92, of Grand Rapids, MN, formerly of Pine City, MN, passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at The Pillars in Grand Rapids.

Gladys was born in 1933 to Ralph and B. Almeda Pike in Ogema Township, MN. During her childhood years, she worked on the family farm near Lake Alma and Danbury, WI. On June 30, 1955, she married Jack Sawatzky, and they made their home in Pine City. Together, they had two children.

Gladys was employed as a paraprofessional at the Pine City Area Learning Center, where she was loved by all. Known for her beautiful smile and kind heart, her favorite part of her work was taking care of the babies; she loved them as if they were her own. This nurturing spirit defined Gladys; she was truly a mom and grandma to everyone she met.

A talented and dedicated creator, Gladys, was known for her remarkable needlework. She cross-stitched over 100 baby blankets to give away as gifts and handmade Christmas stockings for every member of her family. She enjoyed the little things in life, from tending to her flower gardens to watching the birds, especially her favorite, the ruby red hummingbird. Gladys was an avid collector of hummingbirds and wind chimes, finding joy in the beauty and sounds they brought to her home. At the heart of the home, Gladys was often found in the kitchen, where she was well known for her homemade jelly, jam, pies, and cookies. Above all, Gladys loved being surrounded by her family and friends.

Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack Sawatzky; and her siblings: Lillian Holms, LeRoy Pike, and Howard Pike.

She is survived by her daughter, Renee Simmons; her son, Jack Sawatzky Jr.; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Rosehill Cemetery in Hinckley, MN.