Obituary of Geraldine K. Zahn

Gerrie K. Zahn, age 78, of Annandale, NJ, died October 11, 2023, surrounded by her family.  She was born in Somerville, NJ, on December 4, 1944, to George Grund and Mildred Maxwell Grund. Gerrie was the the youngest of their four children.

Gerrie was an energetic and fun wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She kept busy, having many interests and hobbies.  One of which was real estate. When her children were middle school age, she started delivering listings to real estate offices. Having a great love for animals, Gerrie kept a home filled with adored pets and frequently fed and watched the backyard birds. Gerrie was a talented seamstress and wall paperer. 

In her pastime, Gerrie loved listening to country music, taking walks, spending time with her closest friends, and taking drives (sometimes getting lost on purpose to create a fun-filled afternoon).  She also enjoyed fishing with friends and family, watching Nascar races, and taking trips to Atlantic City to play poker machines. Gerrie often expressed herself through her beautiful poetry. Her poetry will be enjoyed by her children and grandchildren for years to come.

Gerrie’s competitive and lucky nature could often be seen when bowling, watching game shows, playing the lottery, playing cards and games. She was hard to beat and always thinking a few moves ahead, usually while snacking on some chicken nuggets!

Late in life, she worked to overcome COPD. She fought it fiercely until she could no longer do so. She will be greatly missed by her friends and family, her beloved cats, Smokey and Bandit, and especially by her loving husband, Herb.

Gerrie is survived by her husband of 61 years, Herb; her children, Susan and her husband Steven Oravetz of Oxford, NJ and Debbie of Seymour, CT; and her grandchildren Cassandra and her wife Casey Block of Vernon, CT, and Nicholas Dulepski. 

At Gerrie’s request, all her services will be private, but we invite you to celebrate her life privately in whatever way you feel best. In lieu of flowers, Gerrie would ask that you please make a donation in her name to your local animal shelter, consider adopting a pet, or volunteering your time there. 

Gerrie was always writing poetry and we’ve included one here that felt appropriate:

“Farewell My Friend”

I’m on my way to Heaven
Just wanted you to know
How much your friendship means to me
Let’s hug before I go

I’m on my way to Heaven
I hope that’s where I’ll be
All the pets I’ve loved and lost
Are waiting there for me

I’m on my way to Heaven
To be at peace once more
I’ll miss you til we meet again
Beyond God’s golden door

-Gerrie K. Zahn 12/01/2008