Gerlyn "Gerrie" Klaft

KLAFT, Gerlyn Ann "Gerrie". Passed peacefully on December 6, 2024 at the age of 79 in her sleep surrounded by her husband Ken and her children. Gerrie was greeted in heaven by her son Don with open arms. Beloved wife of Ken. Loving mother of David (Cindy) Klaft, Donna (Dave) Finzel, Deborah "Debbie" Klaft, and the late Donald (the late Lisa) Klaft who both passed away on Flight #255. Proud and adored grandmother of Christopher (Courtney) Klaft and Adam Finzel. Dear sister of the late Phil (Janet) Kaley, the late Jackie (Paul) Brown, Cindy (Ray) Raymon, Lynn (Gary) LaBonte, and Chris (Judy) Kaley. Treasured aunt of many nieces and nephews. Tribute to Gerrie: A Love Story Gerrie grew up on Detroit's east side, on 3 Mile Drive near Mack Ave. It was here that she first met her husband, Ken, through her brother Phil. The boys would gather to play street sports on 3 Mile Drive, and afterward, they'd hang around Phil's house. It was during these gatherings that Ken and Gerrie's teenage love story began - one that lasted for 62 years and will continue even after Ken's passing. Throughout her life, Gerrie was blessed with many friends, but her childhood friendship with Geri and Cheryl was particularly special. Their bond lasted through the years, sharing countless laughs, memories, secrets, and good times. Gerrie's kindness, genuine spirit, and infectious happiness drew people to her. She was easy to love, and she loved easily in return. Family was everything to Gerrie. She took immense pride in watching her four children grow, and her joy was in hosting get-togethers - any excuse to bring family and friends together. Her home was always filled with warmth, love, and laughter. Gerrie had a deep connection to the outdoors. She loved gardening, sewing, and boating, but most of all, she loved sharing these experiences with Ken. Whether helping with yard work, working in the woods, preparing for hunting camp, or painting one of their many projects, they did everything together. At Grand Lake, her first question upon arrival was always, "Are we going fishing today?" She especially loved ice fishing. A generous soul, Gerrie was passionate about giving back to others. She donated to many charities, with a special place in her heart for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Wounded Warriors. Animals also held a special place in her heart. She couldn’t resist stopping to pet a stray cat or dog she encountered. Up north in Michigan, she delighted in feeding peanuts to chipmunks, watching the deer, and admiring the birds - especially the hummingbirds that visited her property. The wildlife around her was a constant source of joy. Above all, Gerrie was Ken's love, his partner, and his best friend for 62 beautiful years. Together, they built a life and a family that many can only dream of. Their love was steadfast, and it created a legacy of warmth, kindness, and devotion that will be cherished forever. Gerrie will be deeply missed, but her spirit - her kindness, love, and laughter - will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Visitation Wednesday from 3-8pm with a 7pm Scripture Service at Wujek - Calcaterra & Sons Inc., 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile (SHELBY TOWNSHIP). Funeral Thursday Instate from 9:30am until 10am Mass at St. Kieran Church, 53600 Mound Rd. (Btw 24 & 25 Mile) Shelby Twp., 48316. Memorial contributions are appreciated to the Capuchin Mission Association, 1820 Mt. Elliott St., Detroit, MI 48207 or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105. Please share memories with the family at their online guestbook at WujekCalcaterra.com

Gerlyn "Gerrie" Klaft

November 3, 1945 - December 6, 2024