Wendy Jane Gorham

Wendy Jane Gorham, 72, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully at home on September 3, 2026, after a long and valiant battle with cancer. She was born on April 30, 1954, to Gene and Betty Fransen of Milaca, MN. She grew up in Milaca and graduated from Milaca High School in 1972. After graduating, she trained at Anoka Technical College and multiple Twin Cities-area hospitals before working as an Operating Room Technician at Mount Sinai Hospital in South Minneapolis. Following her work in the medical field, she worked as a flight attendant for Northwest Airlines until marrying Michael Gorham on April 2, 1977. She spent many years participating in the various business ventures the two of them pursued together in the construction, propane and natural gas distribution, and air transport industries. She served in many volunteer roles, including being the only two-term National Propane Gas Association First Lady, a founder and Chair of the National Propane Gas Foundation’s Scholarship Fund, Mora City Council member, and a participant in several civic and school organizations.

Wendy and Mike also took time for extensive personal travel, often with their family, visiting South Korea, Europe, South America, Alaska, the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas as well as flying and driving trips throughout the contiguous United States. Wendy was an active member of the United Methodist Church, serving on multiple committees, Boards and ministries in Mora, Cambridge and Grand Rapids over many years. She was an avid reader and enjoyed participating in her book club.

Above all, Wendy loved spending time with her family, and particularly her grandchildren. She brought joy to all over many holidays, birthdays, family dinners, and vacations.

She was preceded in death by her father, Gene; brother, Curt; and brother-in-law, Dennis.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Mike; children, Rachel (Tony) and Neil (Rose); grandchildren, Anna, Aria, Lydia and Josiah; mother, Betty; sisters, Jackie and Laura (Brian); brother-in-law, Pat (Carmel); sister-in-law, Julie (Bruce); and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Wendy was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. She lived out her Christian faith daily in countless ways. Although she will be deeply missed, all of her family and friends will remain eternally grateful for the pleasure of having had her in our lives.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Grand Rapids United Methodist Church, followed by interment at Itasca-Calvary Cemetery and a reception at the church. A visitation will be held two hours prior to the service.

Arrangements are with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.