Pauline “Polly” M. Gatz 74, died at her home on February 25. A longtime antique dealer, Polly was an active member and an officer of the New Hampshire Antiques Dealers Association, and was a longtime exhibitor at the NHADA Antiques Show. With her husband Phil she exhibited at the Sara French shows in Concord, N.H., at many of the Russell Carrell shows throughout New England, among other venues. Linda Tate, current president of the NHADA, said that the 2006 NH Antiques Show will be dedicated to both Albert Dow and Pauline Gatz.
She was born in Pomfret, Vt., the daughter of Arthur James and Leola (Weaver) Sumner, and grew up in Woodstock, Vt. She moved to New Hampshire many years ago. She loved her “farm” on Texas Hill, and, with Phil’s help, restored their antique cape into a showplace. She had an open shop at her home for many years.
Polly was known for her knowledge and love of antiques, her devotion to family and friends, her deep commitment to the causes she supported, her enthusiasm and stamina and for her infectious laugh – she was the best audience ever for a good joke! She tackled any task, from gardening, to building stone walls, to pitching in to help others in trouble, with enormous energy and humor.
She lived with joy and strength, and she faced death with courage, dignity and grace. We all hope that she is somewhere plotting the next house call with old friends like Bob Chase and Bob Wiggins.
She is survived by her beloved family: her husband Phil Gatz, and her daughters Pamela Charon, Bonnie Charon, Jessica Christopher, and Sandra Charon, as well as five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Pat Brozza and leaves many grieving and loving friends.
No services are planned at this time.
-Janet Ball
