It is with a heavy heart that I share with all of you that my beloved wife Gerie passed away over the holidays. After a long struggle with heart and lung disease, she is finally at peace. Gerie is survived by a very loving family, all of whom were with her at the end. Thank you to our daughter Jennifer and her husband Lucas and to our son Jeff and his wife Jodie for their love and support. Gerie is survived by 5 grandchildren, Madison, Max, Ben, Jack, and Preston. She deeply loved our family, and we all loved our “Nanny”.
I met Gerie in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I walked into her office at the Selection 500 Personnel Agency, saw her big beautiful blue eyes and curly hair and the rest was history. We were married on May 3, 1980, in Winnipeg and experienced transfers to Calgary, Toronto, Detroit and finally Grand Rapids where we lived for the past 25 years. Gerie chose to be a stay-at-home Mum for much of our married life and was actively involved as a PTA member, Block Watch leader and a fierce advocate for our children. I couldn’t have asked for a more kind, thoughtful, funny, and loving partner for over 43 years.
After the tears have been wiped away, we are all left with very happy memories of a loving wife, parent, grandparent, sister, and friend. She will be forever in our hearts. Funeral services will be held 3:00 pm, Friday January 5, 2024, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with visitation one-hour prior.
One Response
Derek and family,
Deb and I are so sorry to hear of Gerie’s passing. Derek – one of my most fond memories of working together at Steelcase was at the end of each day how you would call Gerie to ask about her day and let her know you were on your way home. It was clear to see the deep love and connection you had together. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Tim & Deb Disler