Geraldine "Gerri" Behrns

Geraldine "Gerri" Behrns, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 12, 2024, in Orange, California, at the age of 99. Born on May 24, 1924, in Buffalo, New York, Gerry's life journey was an inspiring testament to the power of grace, gentleness, and the enduring strength of family bonds.

Gerry grew up in North Tonawanda, New York, where she attended local schools and graduated from Payne Avenue High School in North Tonawanda It was there, by introduction from her brother at a local bowling alley, that she met Donald Leonard Behrns after Donald's service in the Army, they married and embarked on over half a century of shared dreams, celebrating 56 years of marriage until his passing in 2002.

As a homemaker, Gerry dedicated her life to the care and nurturing of her five sons, Randy Donald and his wife Setsuko, Jeffrey David, Todd Douglass Joseph, Donald Michael, and Brett Daniel and his wife Toni. Her love extended to her six grandchildren, Mara, Alexsis, Tamara, Jamee, Evan, and Landon, and one great-grandson, Tristan, each of whom she infused with her zest for life and her passion for family.

Gerry's life was one of active engagement. She was the heart of the home, the engine of the family's activities, and the quiet strength behind their accomplishments. Her involvement with her sons' Cub Scouts, her volunteer work at their schools, and her dedication to the local church were all expressions of her unwavering commitment to her family and community.

Her interests were as diverse as they were passionate. An amazing cook, Gerry's German Coffee Cake, or Kuka, was legendary, and she found joy in the melodies of opera and the complexities of classical music. Gerry's vitality was unmistakable—she was an advocate for staying active, participating in water aerobics, and sharing her workout routines with her grandchildren. Her love for walking, especially around the park with her great-grandson, was a cherished routine.

Elegance was not just a trait for Gerry; it was a way of life. She carried herself with a poise and beauty that was timeless. Adventure was never far from her doorstep, whether it was riding a donkey or simply embracing the promise of a good time. Her idea of a perfect day was simple yet profound—a wonderful breakfast, a shopping trip to Macy's, and a nice dinner to cap it off.

Above all, Gerry loved her family fiercely and cherished every moment spent with them. She was a faith-filled woman, living her life with a grace that touched everyone she met. Gerry's gentle spirit was a soothing presence, a reminder of the beauty of a kind heart.

As a motivational speaker would say, "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." Gerry's life was a collection of breathtaking moments, of love given and received, of laughter shared, and of memories cherished.

In the words of Helen Keller, "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart." Gerry Behrns lived by this principle, feeling every beautiful aspect of life with her heart and sharing it generously with all who knew her.

Gerry's legacy is one of love, a reminder that to live generously and gently is to truly live. Her spirit, her elegance, and her adventurous heart will continue to inspire those she has left behind, guiding them like a lighthouse of love through the seas of life. Gerry Behrns, a woman of grace and gentleness, will be deeply missed, but her light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her beloved family and friends.

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In Lieu of Flowers

Please consider a donation in Gerri's name to:  Orange Coast Community Church

https://occc.church/donations/

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