Geraldine A. (Gerri) East of Helena passed away February 22, 2015 at Saint Peter’s Hospital after a strong and courageous battle with numerous health issues.
Gerri was such a kind, caring person and was loved by everyone that knew her. One only had to spend a few moments with her to realize what a sweetheart she truly was. We have lost a special sister, friend, partner and a very loving mother with her passing.
Gerri was born on March 10, 1937 in Akeley, Minnesota to Carl and Violet Olafson, she was the second of six children. She graduated high school in Westwood, California in 1955 and went onto continue her education and work in San Francisco, CA. While visiting family in White Sulphur Springs, MT she met Nick East and they were married in 1959. Gerri and Nick had three children, twin boys Jay and Jerry and a daughter JoAnne. While living in White Sulphur Springs, Gerri worked many years at the Berg Garage as their bookkeeper. She moved to Helena in 1982 and was a bookkeeper and office manager at Boy Andrew CDC as well as Independent Home Health. IN 1987 Gerri and her partner Bill Dawe purchased Morris Escrow Service and maintained that business until their retirement in 2001.
Gerri and Bill shared a very special bond and enjoyed their life together traveling and birding. Family gatherings and holidays at their home were always such a treat with wonderful food and décor. Gerri was preceded in death by her son Jay, her parents, brothers Ralph, Rick and Pete, niece Katie and also Nick East.
She is survived by her partner Bill Dawe of Helena, daughter JoAnne East of Black Eagle, MT, son and daughter-in-law Jerry and Sherry East of Helena. Sister Cathy Smith of Cardwell, MT and brother Joe (Joan) Olafson of Warroad, MN. Sisters-In-Law Milly, Joyce and Carole, numerous nieces and nephews who loved their “Aunt G.” as well as extended family members Richard, Kevin and Tim Dawe and their families.
A memorial service celebrating Gerri’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 27th at the Yoked Parish in White Sulphur Springs. A coffee hour will follow the memorial service in the social center of the church. Memorials in her honor may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, 115 NE 100th St. Suite 350, Seattle, WA 98125, the Lupus Foundation of America, 2000 L St. NW Suite 410, Washington, D.C. 20036 or the Yoked Parish, 411 Jefferson Street, White Sulphur Springs, MT 59645.
Sharon (Jones) White says
Gerri and I became friends when we both worked at Boyd Andrews CDC. How saddened I am to learn of the passing of my dear, sweet friend. She is free now from the ravages of Lupus and I know she is safe in the arms of the Lord. She loved her children so much and would give me updates on them over a glass of wine and dinner. My thanks to Bill, JoAnn and Jerry for taking care of Gerri to the end.
Cathy Schneckloth Dawe says
Gerri was part of our family for many years and she will be missed! She was a very special lady. We know how hard it is when our parents are no longer with us. Keep the good memories close to your heart. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Barbara Teague Cole says
Thoughts and prayers go to JoAnn and Jerry in the loss of your Mom.
Laura Bodle Glueckert says
Jerry, Sherry & JoAnn – you are all in my prayers in the lost of your Mom! I have many fond memories of her in WSS! Memories are God’s way of her always being with you all!
Raymond Massee says
JoAnn, Jerry I am truly sorry for your loss. I remember your mother from my childhood in WSS she was good people and will by missed by all that know her.
Cathy and Gary Kirkpatrick says
JoAnne, Jerry and Sherry,
Gary and I send our love to you. I will always love Aunt Gerri and have wonderful memories of great times in WSS. She was full of life and a joy to be around.
We are sorry for your loss and know how proud your mom was of you and how much she loved you.
Cathy and Gary
Lindy Haugan McGinnis says
Dear Bill, JoAnn, Jerry & Sherry,
I was so sorry to hear about Aunt Gerri’s passing. Like Cathy, I have such great memories of your folks. I don’t know if you remember but I used to stay with you guys on my Rainbow Girl nights. Your mom was always waiting up when I got back and we’d sit at the kitchen table and talk (and eat!). I loved her laugh, her cooking!, her gracious hospitality. Please let us know when the memorial will be. I would love to be there. Although distance has seperated our families, the memories are close to my heart.
Fondly, Lindy, Joe and family
Kim Haugan Jennings says
Dear JoAnn, Jerry and Sherry:
I’m so sorry for your loss. I have very fond memories of Aunt Gerri. She was always so full of life, so much fun to be around, so welcoming; I loved going to your house. Miss you all.
God Bless.
Kim
Chris Comp says
Jerry, Sherry & JoAnn – Even though our time in growingmay have been short my memories of your family are very special. My prayers be with all of you in the lose of your Mom! I have many fond memories of her in WSS!
Chris