Gerry Helfrich

Gerry Helfrich, known for her contagious smile and genuine kindness, was lifted to be with Jesus on May 29, 2020 after a long illness with dementia. Born in 1935 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Gerry and her husband attended grade school, high school, and college together. At Miami University, she was a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority and Phi Beta Kappa-graduating cum laude. She was also a Presidents Club member and served as a member of the Alumni Board of Directors during the mid-1980's. We should also mention here that Gerry often tutored Wayne at Miami University and he even admits that she had a positive influence on his study habits! After graduation she worked for the National Security Agency as a security liaison Laurel, Maryland. She also worked for the Bay Village school system as the secretary to the principal and school psychologist at Westerly Elementary. Her love for international travel led her to a career as a travel consultant for 20 years at Atlas Travel. Gerry and Wayne traveled extensively through Western Europe and England. Every trip was document for future client reference and Gerry spent hours writing beautiful summaries of each trip. Gerry was a member of Bay Presbyterian Church for 55 years! During this time, she was a Deacon, a Sunday school teacher, and organized a book drive for several years donating over 6,000 children books to those in need. The cold Wisconsin winters enabled her to excel in figure and speed skating! Later in life, tennis and golf kept her active. Her passion for travel, nature, gardening, and cooking continues to be carried on by her children and grandchildren. Gerry loved walking on beaches whether it was the Algarve of Portugal or Bonita Springs in Florida. She also enjoyed her evening walks with Wayne in Bay Village with their adored dog, Rusty. Survived by Husband of 61 years, Wayne Helfrich, son Dale (Nancy) Helfrich, daughter Lora (John) Paris, and daughter Linda (David) Kabealo. Grandchildren Taylor, Reese, and Avery Helfrich; Alexandra and Adam Paris; Amanda and Andrew Kabealo. Private Family Services. Interment at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. 440-937-6175