Florence Mary Gerlach

December 22, 1913 - May 4, 2010

Florence Mary Gerlach died Tuesday, May 4, 2010 in Nashville, TN. She was 96 years of age, born December 22, 1913, in Chicago Heights, IL. Preceded in death by her parents, John and Catherine Baker; dear brothers: George and Gregory Baker; and beloved husband of 54 years, Herbert G. Gerlach. Florence moved to Crown Point, IN as a bride, and was a loyal, proud resident for 70 years until her relocation to Nashville, TN. During her younger years, she was very active in St. Mary's Catholic Church, the PTA, Altar and Rosary Society, and the church Resale Shop. Florence gave her time, energy and many talents to the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, as a pack and troop leader. Her volunteerism extended to St. Anthony's Hospital and Gift Shop. She was an avid reader and member of The Friends of the Library. In her retirement years, she could be seen driving with her faithful cocker spaniel companion, “Missy” to the Senior Center to socialize with her many friends and play cards, a lifelong passion. Florence was affectionately known for her “green thumb” and colorful, beautiful flowers at 346 West North St. Her garden gave her hours of pleasure and was her pride and joy. She loved to take evening car rides with family, but enjoyed more extensive travel allowing her to visit many states; in her 80's, she cruised the Hawaiian Islands with a dear friend and toured Europe with family. All types of needle work were interesting to her, but her devotion to knitting came first, whether knitting socks for soldiers in WWII or sweaters and afghans for family members. Introducing and teaching someone to knit gave her purpose and joy well into her early 90's. Florence by her very nature was vibrant, curious and enthusiastic to the every end of her long and memorable life. She will be greatly missed by those whose lives she touched. Florence is survived by her two daughters; Carol Jean Gerlach, Nashville, TN, Sue Ann Conquest and her husband, Daniel, Charlottesville, VA, and a son, John Gerlach and his wife, Gere, Cresco, PA, she was a much loved “Grandma” to eight grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren. The family will receive visitors from 10:00 until 11:00 on Friday, May 14, 2010 at St. Anthony Home Chapel in Crown Point with a funeral mass celebrated at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow the service at St. Mary's Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson St., Nashville, TN 37203-2926 or the charity of your choice. To share a memory or send a condolence to the family, please visit the guestbook section on the obituary page at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com. For information call 219-663-2500.

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John, so sorry to hear about your Mom, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Take Care, Denise Wetzel

Sue Ann and family, When I think of your Mother, I picture elegance and class. She was a very gentle, poised lady. Our prayers are with you all at this time. Tom & Kathy Liss

Grandma, You always asked if I remembered hitting the balloon with you and laying in bed doing spelling quizes with you and grandpa. I remember that and so much more. You always brought me swedish fish from Marshall Fields when you came to visit. I remember sitting on your back porch with people all around in folding lawn chairs in the summer. Your garden was always so beautiful. We always had corn from the farm stand that I had to shuck on the back porch. You would always worry about what to feed people when they came to visit. We almost always had Broncos chicken for atleast one meal. And you always made crisp or rhubarb pie. I also remember your strawberry rhubarb sauce that we ate plain or on ice cream. When I would come to visit after college you always made apple crisp, but when I got there there would be a very small corner missing because you would have to try it to make sure it tasted okay. I miss you more than I thought possible, and I hope that you are happy.

Well, Mom...you're finally back home in Crown Point: You'll be tucked in next to Dad and surrounded by family and all your friends. They had a long time to wait for your arrival! : I will miss you very much. Just know that when I plant a flower, make a pie,or pick up a pair of knitting needles...I'll see your smiling face. With Love For Always, Sue Ann

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.