Grace Hall was born in Buffalo in 1914. Her parents Harry and Charlotte owned the first Ford dealership in Buffalo. Grace was the first born followed by Doris three years later. As befits the owner of a successful business the Halls owned horses. Grace took to the saddle at an early age, becoming so adept a rider that she won her first competition at the tender age of 12. Riding her fathers horse Buster Boy she beat out 31 adult riders, to become the first child to win the Cortland County Horse Show. Over the years she competed in many horse shows throughout New England and Canada. She and Buster Boy presenting a strong and confident presence in newspaper clippings of the time.
The great depression had a tremendous impact on the family. Her father lost the Ford dealership, as well as their home and savings. Charlotte took over for the family, working hard to becoming the first woman real estate agent in New York. Grace’s confidence remained , tinged with a bit of sadness, as she grew into an attractive young women. Her photos now appeared in the society pages as often as the sports pages. She followed her mothers lead into the real estate business. They worked out of Charlotte Hall Real Estate in Williamsville and later Otto NY.
About 1941 she married Walter Bruehl. Together they had three sons, Craig, Walter “Trey,” and Richard. The senior Walter worked for Dunlop Sporting Goods as a salesman. When they were first married, the couple lived in Buffalo, and in the 1950′s built a house in Williamsville. During this time Grace became and avid golfer and gardener. Her competitive spirit intact, she kept up with her riding and entered golf tournaments in the area. Walter senior died in the late 1970′s and shortly after, her sons moved her to the house on Elizabeth Street where she lived until her death.
During her years in Ellicottville she joined St. John’s Episcopal Church. She loved her little cottage and tended to her “English Garden” of ivy that took over her front lawn. Those who knew her remember her Chows; the dogs who where her constant companions. She is survived by Craig and his wife Patricia Bruehl of Cattaraugus, Walter “Trey” Bruehl of Ellicottville, and Richard Bruehl of Seattle. Her Mother Charlotte and sister Doris died several years ago. She is also survived by two grandchildren: Keith and Erica, and two great grandchildren: Alexandria and Austin, as well as several nieces and nephews. In the end it can be said that she was a devoted wife and mother, and a woman who followed her passion.
