Gloria Senften

Gloria was born March 11, 1923 to Nathan and Clara Clark in Dallas, Texas. After graduating from high school, her university plans for Southern Methodist were interrupted by the onset of the Second World War.  She worked for the 8th Service Command under Admiral Byrd and was active in the USO. It was at a USO dance in Dallas that Gloria met Eugene Senften who had rotated back from his tour of duty as a B-17 pilot flying out of England.  It only took a few dances that enchanted evening before a love that would last for 68 years blossomed.  They were married on September 6, 1946 in Dallas, but shortly moved back to Idaho where Eugene continued university.  They were blessed by two sons, Bradford and Robert. The move to Petaluma happened in 1960 where Eugene became Quality Control Manager of the then Petaluma Co-operative Creamery.  Gloria was a woman of many talents.  For a while a stay-at-home mom, but as the children got older she took employment at Rancho Cotate High School.  While there she was an assistant teacher, assistant librarian and AV Technician.  She retired at the age of 62 in 1987. Her husband also retired that year and so began the traveling they would both enjoy so much.  Some of the trips were to visit the grandchildren, Philip, Peter, and James.  Gloria will be missed by Bradford & Christine, Robert & Linda, Philip & Allison, Peter, James & Laura.  A special delight in July of this year was having all of the family together with her including great-grandchildren, Bailey, Brooklynn, Luke and Owen. She was a long time member of Elim Lutheran Church and was active in the events, bazaars and weekly worship of her church community. Gloria always had a smile on her face, a love for people, and a prayer in her heart. The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers of Springfield Place and the caregivers from Hospice of Petaluma. At Gloria's request, the family held a private family service on October 13th.  Memorial gifts may be made to Elim Lutheran Church of Petaluma, Hospice of Petaluma, or the charity of your choice.