Gladys Marlene Kuehn

Gladys Marlene Kuehn (1936 – 2025)

Gladys Marlene Kuehn (née George) was born on October 17, 1936, in Miles City, MT, to Jay and Mary George. She was raised on the plains of Montana, where her roots ran deep. Her grandparents were among the early homesteaders, establishing a family ranch that would become a lasting part of her identity and upbringing. The values of hard work, self-reliance, and community care were woven into her early years—traits that would later define both her professional career and family life.

Drawn to a life of service, Gladys earned an RN Degree at Mounds Midway Nursing School at Hamline University in St. Paul, MN. She worked as a visiting nurse and in several hospital settings, eventually taking a position at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, where she provided medical care to students and faculty with professionalism and a deeply human touch. Whether treating minor illnesses or offering support through more serious health concerns, Gladys became known for her compassion and sense of humor.

While working as a nurse at American Baptist Assembly in Green Lake, WI, Gladys met Arthur Kuehn, who was preparing to enter Colgate Rochester Seminary to become an American Baptist Minister. Their meeting was the beginning of a deep and enduring partnership. They were married for 57 years until Art’s passing in 2016, spending a life together grounded in faith, service, and family.

Because of Arthur's ministerial duties, the Kuehns moved frequently, living in Rochester, NY; Columbus, OH; Hudson, WI; Vernon, CT; Lewiston, ME; Silver Spring, MD; and Chambersburg, PA. Through each transition, Gladys created a loving and stable home for Arthur and their two daughters, Cindy Kuehn Kindl (Don) and Krista Kuehn (Kendall Uzar). She balanced her roles as a mother, minister’s wife, and nurse with grace and quiet strength. Gladys also leaves behind three loving grandchildren and their spouses and five, soon to be six, great grandchildren.

Gladys moved to Penney Farms, FL in 2019, a retirement community (PRC) known for its peaceful atmosphere and connection to Christian service. Surrounded by others who had also lived lives of service, she remained active and engaged, volunteering in many endeavors. Life at PRC also allowed Gladys to spend the last years of her life traveling and enjoying the company of her very special companion and dear friend, Dr. Thomas Ellinger.

From her roots on a Montana ranch through her years as a nurse and minister’s wife, she carried herself with humility and purpose. She gave generously—to her patients, her family, her faith communities, and her friends. Her daughters and their families continue her legacy in their own lives, shaped by the values their mother and grandmother taught by example.

Gladys leaves behind a lasting impression on all who knew her—a life well lived, full of deep and abiding friendships, faith and love. There will be a Celebration of Life held on Saturday, October 25 at 10am at the Penney Memorial Church in Penney Farms, FL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the P.E.T. Project at Penney Farms. https://petflorida.org/