Gertrude Edith Geelnard (Gert), 91, Largo, Florida passed away very peacefully at Brookside Hospice House on Monday, September 26, 2011.
Gertrude was born on May 22, 1920 in Quincy, MA to Edith Carlson Geelnard and George Geelnard. She was an only child. She grew up in Springfield, MA and graduated from Commerce High School. She worked in various jobs throughout her life many of which allowed her to use her artistic and creative talents in graphic arts, clothing design, fashion arts, advertising, writing, and leadership and management. She lived in New York City and took classes at Parson’s School of Fashion Design while working in retail and clothing merchandising settings. She enlisted in the Women’s Army Air Corps during World War II. In later years, she was able to complete an Associate’s degree at Asnuntuck Community College in Enfield, CT. At a time when women were not in management positions, Gertrude rose to management in several jobs while raising her children. Throughout her life she was involved in many community and non-profit volunteer projects ranging from the Springfield, MA Community Chest to Girl Scouts as well as various clubs and organizations related to art and her various jobs.
Gertrude’s life path included marriage and children as well as grandchildren. She shared her passion for the arts and creativity with her family in her support of their ambitions in life. She always wanted her children and grandchildren to pursue their dreams and do what they felt best doing.
She moved to Largo, FL in 1987 and continued to pursue working part-time and volunteering with art groups, church and community groups. She spent many years driving or flying back to New England to visit her children and grandchildren as they grew up. She enjoyed being with family in both Florida and Connecticut and collected memories from her visits and time spent with all.
Gertrude is survived by her children, Denise in Florida, and Gary and Nancy in Connecticut. In addition, she leaves four grandchildren, Kyle, Christopher, Chelsea and Daniel, all living in Connecticut.
A family memorial will be held in New England in November. Memorial donations may be sent to Suncoast Hospice in Pinellas County, FL or Humane Society of North Pinellas, Clearwater, FL. A special thank you goes to all the wonderful people at Brookside Hospice House for their compassion and caring.
“Dreams are what keep us young and alive.”
Denise,
You wrote a lovely tribute to your Mother….what an exciting life she led! You really brought her story to life for those of us who did not know here…thank you! She must have been very proud of you….
Ilona and Carl
What a loving, wonderful tribute to an exceptional life. She really lived an exiting life and was so far ahead of her time. She had to be so proud of having raised such a caring strong woman in you! Cherish your memories. Much love, Dee
I know Ilona already commented, but after reading this beautiful announcement, I want to let you know my thoughts. You certainly must be proud of your remarkable mother. After looking at this picture, I can also see where your smile comes from! Carl
Denise, what a wonderful tribute to your Mother.
I never had the pleasure of meeting your Mom but
after reading her life experiences I can see she
lead a beautiful life which must give you much peace. You are blessed to have her as she was
blessed to have you as her daughter! Phyllis & Ed
A wonderful memory to a special life.
Dear Denise,
This was wonderful to read because it gave us a beautiful picture of your mother and her life and her accomplishments. You also brought out the importance of her family in her life. I wish I would have known your mother.
Mary
It is remarkable what she experienced in her 91 years, and this is a beautifully written memorial of her life. She lives on the family she leaves behind.
Great picture of Gert and a very nice tribute to her. We’ll alwaws rember Thanksgiving dinners with us all together. Bill n Ruth
Dear entire geelnard family,
Please accept my deepest condolences and thoughts and prayers at this time.
god bless you all
Timothy H Mcsweegan.
We will miss you Grandma Gert, you have left us too soon! I wish u could of met Miss Sadie. She’s better than old white face! Meanwhile, life is eternal; and love is immortal;and death is only a horizon;and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight.
Mom – It’s been 1 month since you embarked on your new adventure and we all miss you so very much. There will never be a day that I am not grateful for having you as my mom. You led such an interesting life and the memories of your life touch me. I tell you every day that I am proud to be your daughter and that I will never forget you. Love to you.