Grenmarie Agresar

Memorial trees planted for:

Grenmarie Agresar

<p>With deep sadness we relay the passing of Grenmarie Agresar, loving mother, daughter, partner, and friend. She is survived by her three children, Gabriela, Darien, and Julian Skifstad; her partner, Phil Dewey; her father, Fernando Agresar; her former husband, Kurt Skifstad; and so many cherished family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her brother, Andrik Agresar and her mother, Maya Valle. Gren was born on March 8, 1968 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, graduated high school from Colegio Espíritu Santo, and began her Ann Arbor adventure in 1986 as a freshman at the University of Michigan. </p><p><br></p><p>At U of M, Gren completed a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and a PhD in Biomedical Engineering and Scientific Computation. </p><p><br></p><p>Over the years, she embraced the natural beauty of the midwest, but Gren always possessed a fierce love for Puerto Rico, its people, and the vibrant beauty of Puerto Rican culture. Throughout her life she maintained a beautiful friendship with a special group of childhood friends, even as lives and careers took them in different directions.</p><p><br></p><p>Gren’s educational journey continued with postdoctoral appointments at the U of M Medical School and the Max Planck Institute in Tuebingen, Germany. She had fond memories of the two years she spent in Stuttgart, Germany exploring Europe with two toddlers.</p><p><br></p><p>She was a life-long learner, dedicated to her studies and to making the world a better place. When her children were school age, she obtained a Master’s Degree in Education and took a teaching position at Skyline High School in Ann Arbor. In 2017 she joined the Center for Research in Learning and Teaching at U of M where she helped other educators improve their teaching skills while promoting inclusion practices, equity, and empathy. As a friend and colleague, she brought her whole heart into every pursuit. </p><p><br></p><p>Gren excelled at creating community and connection. She was naturally athletic and enthusiastically pursued sports and outdoor activities. In college she made many friends through volleyball and later on, through hockey and tennis. </p><p><br></p><p>A dedicated mother, passionate educator, and gifted artist, she devoted her life to her kids and her family. Gren adored her cats, Tasha and Tommy. She took endless photos of the flowers she would someday paint. And she was always up for playing a game, taking a walk, or inviting people over. </p><p><br></p><p>We remember that Gren extended kindness and understanding to others. She faced mental health challenges with strength and grace, determined that they not overshadow her inner light. </p><p><br></p><p>She found beauty in everyday life, embraced travel, and valued her family and friends. Unfalteringly authentic, she had a penchant for befriending strangers and a magical way of making people feel seen, treasured, and included. </p><p><br></p><p>Above all, Gren was fierce, strong, loving, beautiful and kind. Her extraordinary life touched so many people, and her earthly presence will be forever missed.</p><p><br></p><p>Please join us to remember her and carry her spirit forward at First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor, 608 E. William Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 on Sunday, January 12, 2025 at 2:30 pm for the visitation, 4:30 pm for the service.</p><p><br></p><p>The service will be live-streamed beginning at 4:30 pm and will be accessible on <a href="https://www.fccannarbor.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.fccannarbor.org</a>; the link to the YouTube livestream is located at the bottom of the homepage.</p><p><br></p><p>Please consider making a donation in Grenmarie's name to Miles Jeffrey Roberts Foundation (<a href="https://mjr-foundation.square.site/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mjrfoundation.org</a>), Huron River Watershed Council (<a href="https://www.hrwc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hrwc.org/donate/</a>), or Save a Gato, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico (<a href="https://www.saveagato.com/donate" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">saveagato.com</a>).</p>
March 8, 1968 - January 5, 202503/08/196801/05/2025
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Grenmarie Agresar
Grenmarie Agresar
18 Trees have been planted in memory of Grenmarie Agresar.

Memorial Trees

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Anonymous

January 12, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
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Anonymous

January 12, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Agresar/Skifstad family.
F

Family Llorente Horowitz, RPPC

January 12, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Family Llorente Horowitz, RPPC. Plant a tree
With heartfelt condolences,
H

Heather G

January 11, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Heather G. Plant a tree
In loving memory of my dear friend. You've touched more hearts than youd ever realize and will be deeply missed.
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Agnes Moy

January 11, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Agnes Moy. Plant a tree
Wishing you moments of peace and comfort during this difficult time. I will always remember Gren for her spirit and liveliness.
S

Steve & Kellie Gibbs

January 10, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Steve & Kellie Gibbs. Plant a tree
With caring thoughts,
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Anonymous

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
A

Anonymous

January 10, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
R

Rhonda Holton

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Rhonda Holton. Plant a tree
Gren touched and shaped our lives by her presence, and her memory continues in your hearts and ours. In these difficult times, we are here for you.
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Anonymous

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
Our hearts break with you and for you. Sending all light and love.
N

Noel & Michele Moore

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Noel & Michele Moore. Plant a tree
Kurt, Gina and family,Our hearts morn for your loss. May the love of your family comfort your souls. Love, Michele & Noel
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Anonymous

January 09, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Grenmarie Agresar has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree