Mrs. Kathleen Joan Gerke

July 28, 1938 - November 26, 2020

Kathleen Joan Gerke, age 82, went to be with her Lord and Savior on November 26, 2020 with her family by her side. She was preceded in death by her parents Augustine “Gus” and Margaret Jastifer and her parents in-law Fred and Clara Gerke. Her sister Carolyn Jastifer and several sister and brother in-laws. Kathy graduated from Saint Patrick’s in Parnell High School and earned her nursing degree. She went on to become a nurse at Saint Mary’s Hospital. She gave up her nursing career to raise her nine children. She was a loving caring mother dedicated to her family. She is survived by her husband of 57 years John (Jack) Gerke, her sisters JoAnn (Joel) Jannenga, Arlene (Bill) Middleton, and brother James (Pauline) Jastifer, and her brother and sisters in law, Bill (Joanne) Gerke, Lorraine Veneklase, Mary Lou Veneklase, Patricia Boatright, Pat Gerke, Geri Gerke, She will be lovingly remembered by her children; Claire Gerke, Christine (Vern) Kirk, Bridget (Patrick) Huver, Lorraine (Arthur) Brys, Denise Gerke (Brad Polega), Bernadette (Mike) Petersen, John (Angela) Gerke, JoAnn (TJ) Kusmierski, Carol (Shane) Ladner and her 22 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Kathy’s kind welcoming heart will be missed by all. Especially her warm hugs as she made the sign of the cross on your back while saying a silent prayer. She lived with grace and gratitude every day, and was always so thankful for everything, even little things. She was dedicated to her faith and family. The home she created was full of family and friends and she served them all with smiles, delicious meals, a grateful heart, and endless love. As Mom would say, Thank you Jesus! “J.M.J” Jesus, Mary, and Joseph pray for us. “Keep your Sunshine On” and “May God Bless You and Yours”. Our family would like to thank the team at Faith Hospice for their care and support, especially our nurse Lisa. The Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Wednesday December 2 at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick’s Church, Parnell where she will repose one hour before the Mass. Interment St. Patrick’s Church Cemetery, Parnell. Her family will receive visitors Tuesday December 1 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Rd NW. Social distancing and masks are appreciated. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Hospice or St. Patrick’s School, Parnell.