Obituary of Rochelle Grebb

Rochelle Kaaplander Grebstein Grebb (Ricky) The Final Act 1927-2025

Born June 1, 1927, in Philadelphia, the fourth daughter of Orthodox Rabbi Morris Hoff Kaaplander and Lena Brenner Kaaplander, Granddaughter of Orthodox Rabbi Nathan Brenner. Rochelle obtained a BA in Theater Arts from Temple University. She studied under Pop Randall and stayed in touch with him until his passing. Rochelle did summer stock theater in Grand Junction, CO. 

Rochelle met her husband Jerry in 1949 and they married in 1951 in Florida. While on their way to Grand Junction, they settled in the Denver suburb of Westminster, where they ran the Motorina Cafe, Grebb Electric, Federal Electric, and Lighting World. Rochelle and Jerry had 2 children, Morey (1954) and Lori (1956). Rochelle resumed her acting, doing over a hundred plays, including at the Germinal Stage, Red Rocks Amphitheater, and Denver University Theater. 

Rochelle and Jerry were inseparable until she lost her husband, Jerry, in 2012. Rochelle made the most out of her life without him, spending time with her family. Rochelle remained in her home surrounded by devoted caregivers and family. She loved celebrating her 98th birthday surrounded by family and friends. She enjoyed a birthday visit from Rabbi Rheins and lots of music and singing. She maintained a love for life and for acting, always talking about doing another play until she passed from Alzheimer’s on July 7, 2025, at the age of 98. 

Rochelle is survived by her son, Morey, his wife, Rocio, and their son, James; her daughter, Lori, her husband, Mitch, and her children, Austin and Nicole; Lori’s stepchildren, Hailey and Josh, and step-grandchildren Ella, Talia, Ruby, and Romi.

Memorial service will be held Friday, August 22, 2025, at 10:30 am at Temple Sinai 3509 S. Glencoe St. Denver, CO 80237.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or a charity of your choice.