We will miss the gentle spirit of Grete Waitz

I've liked most of the Norwegians I've met.  Before the Munich Olympics, our team spend 3 weeks in Oslo.  Grete was not in that Olympics, but emerged from club running shortly thereafter and became one of the top female competitors in the 5K and 10K within a few years – then was top-ranked in the marathon.  While most runners at that level tended to withdraw into themselves before races and clinics, Grete was personable and interested in each person she talked to.
 
Right after our first child, Brennan, could walk, we were sharing dinner with Grete and Jack Waitz at a restaurant in Virginia before a race.  I never will forget how she took an interest in little Brennan, walking around the room with him, chasing, playing, smiling.  

Grete was a good spirit.  We will miss her.
 
Jeff