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Gerda M. Deterer

Gerda Deterer Obituary

DETERER , Gerda M. On Friday, October 2, 2009, GERDA M. (nee Reuss) DETERER. Founder and President of Wildlife Rescue, Inc., crossed over Rainbow Bridge to be with her beloved husband Wayne and the thousands and thousands of injured and orphaned animals they devoted over three decades of their lives to helping and saving. Gerda was the heart of Wildlife Rescue, Inc., and even though everyone's heart is broken, Gerda wants her family and extended Wildlife Rescue family to try to heal, to continue to carry out her dream of saving Maryland's wildlife. Gerda was the beloved wife of the late W. Wayne Deterer; loving sister of Hannelore Perkins, Irene
Sutton, Marianne Valentin, Annerose Schreiner, and Petra Zannette. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends at the family owned Peaceful Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Center, P.A., 2325 York Road, Timonium, MD 21093 on Saturday, October 10 from 1pm until 2pm with a memorial services beginning at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wildlife Rescue, Inc., P.O. Box 728 Hampstead, MD 21074 or at
www.wildliferescueinc.org

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Baltimore Sun on Oct. 6, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Gerda Deterer

56 Entries

Patty Helfrich

October 3, 2010

Gerda,there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you, and how I miss talking to you about baby squirrels, birds,and other questions that I have now and don't have all the answers to them. I think you would be proud of how I handled the problems on my own, with the baby pigeon, and four baby squirrels, all are fine and doing very well with all the care I gave to them. They have all taken residence in my yard, and all come to me everyday for me to feed them. I will continue to care for any animal that needs my help, but it will never be the same without your advice and knowledge when I need it.
I'm just so thankful for all the knowledge you provided to me, because it has really helped me to give the care to the animals I see that really need that help.
The satisfaction I get in seeing them healthy now is absolutely priceless. I have a bunny who follows me around the yard, and runs to me as soon as he hears my voice, a pigeon who wants to perch on my shoulder, and squirrels that come to my door- twice a day to be fed by me, including mama, who brought her babies to me, when they needed help.
Gerda, even though I have done cat rescue for many years, I have always tried to help other animals also, and always with your help for many years, I have been able to do that, it has been very hard not to share these accomplishments and stories with you as we did in the past.
I have been so very blessed to have known such a sweet,compassionate, wonderful lady, and will continue to dearly miss you.

Tina Siatkowski

November 1, 2009

I will always remember Gerta as the Mother Teresa of animals. I never met anyone that had as much compassion or dedication to animals' welfare as she. She was one in a billion. I remember her sitting on her porch taking one call after another...calmly and quietly. I would have been frantic but she was so calm and explained to each person what to do with whatever animal crisis they were facing. I remember walking into the Hampstead house for the first time and seeing like 10 fawns in the master bedroom of the house in playpens because their barns weren't built yet. That is an example of how dedicated she was to the animals. There will never be another Gerta and I am humbled to have known her and thankful Wildlife Rescue will continue Gerta's important work in her honor.

Bill

October 29, 2009

I am a hunter. I too was blessed enough to meet Mrs. Det (as I called her). When you were in the precense of Gerda you knew you were in the precense of somebody special. Although I disagreed with her stance on hunting and how it would affect Loch Raven, I admired her intelligence, compassion, and her love of animals. A love that we both share.
The world will greatly miss her. My best to her friends and relatives.

lena godin

October 17, 2009

i have a small story about the lovely miss gerda. years ago i found a little bald newborn bird on the sidewalk. i brought it home and didn't know what to do. a friend gave me a number to call. it was gerda. she told me how to feed the bird, got my address and said she would come to pick it up. an hour later she knocked on my door. it was pouring rain and i invited her in. she said no and took the baby bird and put it under her shirt and just left. she said the little thing just a starling, but she promised to take care of it and she did. what a magnificent person. i am so grateful to hsve known her, even if it was only for a minute.

Pat Fink-Helfrich

October 14, 2009

I have some fond memories of Gerda, while I volunteered for her in Dundalk, when her organization was known as Wildbird Rescue at that time, going to her house and Gerda telling me about her "unmentionables" she had in the house, two baby fawns that were less than a week old, mother was killed by hunters, they were in big boxes with blankets in them, and DNR came to her door about another issue talking to her, you knew they seen the fawns, but after their talk, said to her, "we didn't see a thing" turned around and left. Gerda was not licensed to keep them at that time.
Then there was a time she kept a mature trumpeter swan that was shot and would have died from lead poisoning- he was in her kitchen,he was nursed back to health by her and got a good home with a vet who was licensed to have them in his pond on his property.
She also helped me find homes for bunnies that people just abandoned outside in Dundalk, wandering the street, because the people didn't want them anymore, and thought they could survive on their own, when they can't.
Gerda, I want to thank you for all that I learned from you about the treatment of animals, caring for them, I will be forever grateful to you for that knowledge, and will miss you dearly.

Pat Helfrich

October 13, 2009

I volunteered for Gerta years ago, she was a female St. Francis of Assisi of our times, there will never be another Gerta. She NEVER,EVER refused any animal, there was always room for one more. She rarely got sleep in the spring with feedings for all her precious babies all hours of the night. I felt totally honored, privileged, and blessed to have known such a wonderful lady.
Gerta, now you can rest peacefully in heaven with Wayne, since you never took anytime for yourself while you were here, too busy saving the next animal coming in for your help.

Doreen Berry

October 10, 2009

I regret that I was never able to shake the hand of such a dear and tender soul. Anyone who hears of your kindness, grace and your infinate love of animals will forever be touched. Be at peace, God owes you a very special place in heaven.

Bevy King

October 10, 2009

I didn't know Gerda personally, but knew of her thru my friend Bettie. Gerda helped my mom with a wounded duck and nursed it back to health. No critter was too small or too far away for her to offer help. The rainbow bridge probably had a record breaking turn out for Gerda. Thank you from me and Thank you from the animals you helped.

Janenne Corcoran

October 10, 2009

I only first met Gerda in July when I brought an injured Kingfisher to her door. I was amazed at her gentleness and the hope she gave me that the bird would be ok. Later that month the bird was released in Anne Arundel county. About a month later, I brought an injured tufted titmouse baby to Gerda. Again, she assured me that the little one would be ok. What struck me most was that both times I brought those birds, she said "thank you for coming" when I was leaving. I found that ironic since she was the one to be thanked on so many levels. I didn't know she was sick and was very sad to hear she had passed. She left a wonderful legacy as all of these entries demonstrate. I will do what I can to support Wildlife Rescue so the most important legacy will live on. Thank you Gerda.

Angela Constantino

October 10, 2009

I had the honer and privilge of volunteering with Gerda when Wildlife Rescue was still known as Wild Bird Rescue up until about the time she moved to Hereford, then my life situation changed and I drifted away. But there has not been a day that has ever gone by that I have not thought of her with fondness, love and thanks. I work with animals in my day job, I've a college degree in Animal Science, and I volunteer with a Therapeutic riding program thru it all I can honestly say I learned more from Gerda about animal care, compassion and kindness then all the rest combined. Sadly I only tonight have learned of her passing and Sadly I will be unable to attend the services tomorrow. The wheel of life turns and I will be attending a baby shower for my neice...I think Gerda would be o.k., with that...but my heart aches and the tears are still flowing. She was my teacher and my friend. Every time a friend would call with an animal in crisis I'd do what I could and then refer them to Gerda knowing that if she couldn't help it probably no one could. I remember some of the funny calls we would get...the women who wanted us to bring the dead bird back to life...the hawk landing on a guys car and sitting beside him on a bench, the mystery birds she sent me half way around the beltway for only to find they were chickens...it didn't matter her door was open to any and all. I remember the gentleness and compassion when I was ill. Each animal I handle whether it is to end their pain or feed them I think of her. It is good to see the board of directors post that her work will go on. Gerda was special with a knack even for bunnies that drive so many of us nuts. My heart is joined in morning with all who's life she has touched. I see her now in heavens meadows with the critters she aided, with Wayne and with fellow rehabbers all chatting with St. Francis. Rest well my dear friend their will be no more ringing phones, no more injured, or orphaned, no more euthansias to perform. Rest well you've earned it. You rest in my heart and in the heart of many forever. Know too that your legacy of love, compassion and kindness live on thru each of us you've touched. My love, respect and thanks always.

Beth Lindenau

October 9, 2009

"Just this side of Heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge...All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind..."

How many animals count that special person as Gerda?...More than we could ever know. To love and honor all God's creatures in a selfless and enduring way is truly extraordinary and unfortunately so rare.

My special memory of Gerda is her sitting on her porch and allowing me to release a Cooper's Hawk and watching her face with all of the wisdom and satisfaction of a person who has glimpsed and been a part of the gift of restored freedom her efforts had afforded that beautiful creature. I watched him soar over the tree line and was profoundly moved by the experience.

Fly free Gerda...God Bless.

Donna Stallard

October 9, 2009

Gerda was a true angel among us. Gerda, thank you for being there every time I showed up at your door with an injured and innocent soul. You are my heroine. Rest now with all the ones you loved and helped along the way, and let us continue your work here. With enormous respect and gratitude, we carry on.

Bettie Acks

October 9, 2009

I have know Gerda for many years. I volunteered for her for a long time and then she helped me to get my Wildlife Rehabilitator Permit. I am carrying on her work in Western Maryland now, since I am the only rehabilitator her. I am sure she is busy at the Rainbow Bridge, probably repairing broken angel wings, with Wayne and all the critters she saved looking on. There will never be another Gerda and I miss her very much.

Jen M

October 9, 2009

Gerda became my inspiration back in the late 80s. I volunteered for her almost full-time for 3 years and then part-time prior to my moving south. Every critter that came through her door was given every chance at life and given respect. Everyone was greeted with smiles and open arms. My heart aches with the loss of such a person as Gerda. She was a wealth of information and an advocate of all the animals. Blessings to Gerda's family. Love and Light, Gerda, Peace and Blessings.

Debbie Russell

October 9, 2009

Gerta had an endless devotion for all animals. I thank God for her time here on earth. She inspired so many people and helped so many orphaned, sick and injured animals. I am sure Gerta and St. Francis have alot to talk about. Everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her, will NEVER forget her. She will always be in our hearts. May her memory live on with Wildlife Rescue. Gerta, you will be missed!

Kathy McLaurin

October 9, 2009

I came to meet Gerda about 15 years ago. We were simply amazed at how she had turned her life and her world into caring for injured wild life. She had impacted my family. Every time,and there have been many times, when we would find an injured animal we knew that it had a great chance of survival because of her. Wednesday of this week my daugher had found an injured bird, a Fly Catcher. That's when we found out about Gerda's passing.
I want to thank you Gerda for all you have done. I am sure you have many of 4 legged and feathered friends were you are.
Peace be with you

Howard Stiefel

October 8, 2009

Thanks for helping so many animals--

Holly Phipps Adams

October 8, 2009

Gerda didn't simply open her heart to animals. She had a gift of communicating with and connecting with people. And, with that gift, she was able to inspire, educate and hold others respectfully accountable (while enabling them to preserve their dignity) to treat wildlife and domestic animals with teh care and kindness they deserve. To serve animals while having that gift to inspire people to do the same is not commonplace. 3 years ago, Gerda offered to coach and certify me and my husband to become wildlife rehabilitators and we, instead, allowed our personal contraints to prevent us from moving forward with that once in a lifetime opportunity to work with such a gracious human being. And, still after her kind offer and our decision to focus on other life priorities, she had patience with us, stopped on a dime and continued to invite us and welcome us into her world to learn about the animals and how we can make a difference. One of the last thoughts Gerda shared with us, at 2a.m. in her kitchen after feeding the animals a couple months ago, was that she wanted to make sure the next generation gained an appreciation for what she did...for what wildlife resuers do. She said she needed people to continue to carry such an important charge, to utilize their talents and to tap into their passions to help animals...to value and appreciate life while helping others do the same. While those words will always remain with me, I also know it is upon us to follow through with her wishes somehow, even if in the smallest way. My hope, in Gerda's memory and for the animals that still need desperate and unending help and saving, is that God grants people the courage to follow through with their dreams and their true purpose. And, if that purpose is to help animals, it's never too early or too late to try and make a difference. I believe and have great hope and faith that people who have been touched by Gerda and who believe in her charge will do so. Holly Phipps Adams (Hunt Valley, MD)

October 8, 2009

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Gerda. I met her about 15 years ago and have taken numerous injured creatures to her. I knew they would be given the best care available. She was an astonishing woman! She has earned her place in heaven many, many times over. May her work continue for all creatures great and small. She was one in a million.

Dawn Fuhrman, Perry Hall

Yvonne England

October 8, 2009

Liebe Gerda, I only met you a few years ago, you had such a way to make us feel so welcomed, so much like family. Coming over from Germany 1960 same as my own parents, I felt right at home with you. You have done more than your share, taking care of so many animals with such a kind and loving heart, you even bandaged me up a few weeks ago and chanted a funny German saying. We laughed, but now I cry. I will miss you eternally. You were one incredible woman. AufWiedersehen ,deine Yvonne

dove foertschbeck

October 7, 2009

Gerda,
i really loved you. in the short time we knew each other, you taught me so much. i never had a more peaceful day then the days of being with you and taking care of the animals. I will miss everything about you, and continue to try to take care of any human or animal that would need help. thanks for opening your life to me.
I will miss you forever. i hope you are happy back with your husband again.
All my love, Dove

October 7, 2009

Dear Gerda,
I wish I had known you better. You are so unique, so special, so impressive. Thank you for your never-ending commitment and efforts. You made this a special place.
With much love,
Louise Cornell

Erica Cole

October 7, 2009

What a blessing to have known Gerda. Like many others, I first met Gerda when she operated Wild Bird Rescue from her rowhouse in Dundalk. But I didn't get to know her well until this year. I went to Wildlife Rescue to volunteer on Easter because my husband died and I have no family, and I thought helping animals would be a wonderful thing to do on Easter. Gerda welcomed me with open arms. At the end of the day, this dynamic little lady who had no hair at the time because of chemo treatments, invited me to stay for Easter dinner along with many other volunteers to whom she opened her home. She had cooked a full dinner with a roast and even a Bundt cake. That was just one example of how loving and caring she was. She had boundless love for animals and people. She had a very special gift, and everyone who knew her was touched and changed forever by her.

Terri Czarski

October 7, 2009

Ever since I heard of Gerda's passing, two words keep going through my head : angel and inspiration. She was both and will never be forgotten.
I can just imagine the riotous noise just over that Rainbow Bridge. Just think of the sounds of so many paws clapping, hooves stomping, wings flapping, geese honking, ducks quacking, hawks trilling. You get the picture-- earplugs may be needed! We are all grateful for having you here among us and will miss your wisdom.

Yvonne Lanting

October 7, 2009

All the Darkness in the World cannot extinguish the light of a single candle. (St. Francis of Assisi)
My dear, sweet, Gerda, you were that candle. Your light will shine through because you touched so many lives.
You will forever be in my heart.

Maria Joseph

October 7, 2009

Gerda was a truly amazing, kind soul who dedicated her life to those without a voice. I had the pleasure of volunteering as a transporter 2 years ago and it was truly a life changing experience. I have never met someone so selfless, never complaining, simply doing what needed to be done. Gerda was an inspiration to all and will surely take her place in heaven with all of the animals that crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

Terri Hupka

October 7, 2009

I met Gerda about three years ago, but never started volunteering until this year. For me and my son working with Gerda has been a great and wonderful experience. She taught us both so much and she will be missed greatly. I am just glad that I had the opportunity to meet someone as special as her. May you rest in peace with Wayne and your animals. Our hearts go out to your family.
Love -- Terri, Greg, & Phil

Therese Sorrentino

October 7, 2009

What a beautiful day Ms. Gerda gave us for the Fall Fest! She made it the perfect day for a wonderful event. When we see the animals we will surely see Ms. Gerda and remember her selfless caring for God's creatures great and small. Deepest sympathy to Ms. Gerda's family and to all the volunteers. Sincerely, Therese Sorrentino

Lisa Close

October 7, 2009

To the Beautiful Mother of Wildlife: Your Love, passion and dedication to helping animals was so wonderful. It has been my pleasure volunteering for Wildlife Rescue, as you have enriched my life in such a possitive way. The greatest honor a person can achieve when they leave this earth is to be remembered by their accomplishments. You have created Wildlife Rescue not only to heal but to educate and instill a respect for life. Your legacy will be remembered and continued by many generations. It was your time to be rescued my sweet friend.

Janet Kurtz

October 7, 2009

I will never forget the day I met Gerda. I had traveled almost 2 hours to find her because she was the only one able and willing to take a very sick fox that my friend and I had managed to trap. She looked lovingly into the crate we had used to this horribly scabby, infested, tiny creature and lovingly, with bare hands, lifted him softly with sweet, comforting words and took him to be bathed and cared for. She kept him in a wonderful enclosure for 4 months where he was able to run and play and hide and heal. And finally she released him back into the wild as a gorgeous red wonder...Never in all of that time was there a direct demand, or even request, for money. It was all done from the goodness of her heart. I cannot think of a more worthy cause to support. In her loving memory, I will continue to contribute as much as I can manage, and I hope many others will hear her stories and help make her place the shining star of animal rescue in Maryland. I will miss her terribly and hope that her example will spread like wildfire...
Janet Kurtz
Annapolis

Brian Tenberg

October 6, 2009

Gerda was an amazing, wonderful person. She had such a beautiful way with animals, but it wasn't just the animals that were nurtured by being with Gerda. Her inspiration and teaching have meant a lot to me and I'm sure many others. I feel so fortunate to have known her for this past year. My deepest sympathies to the family. God bless you Gerda, and thanks. Love forever, Brian

Kim Padgett

October 6, 2009

I just can't believe Gerda is gone, and I don't think there are enough words to describe what an amazing person she was. I had the privlidge of knowing Gerda for many years both personally & professionally and I never met a more caring, loving, and devoted person in my life. I can still remember when she lived in Dundalk and would take in any injured creature whether it was wildlife or not. Her life was devoted to caring for animals and educating people. My hope is that wildlife rescue will continue as a tribute to all she has done. As Gerda crosses the Rainbow Bridge there will be so many creatures both great & small waiting to welcome her & to show their love & gratitude. There will never and could never be another Gerda.....she was truely one of a kind. I feel she left a special mark on all those that had the honor of knowing her. This is a tremendous loss to both the animal & veterinary worlds. She will be missed greatly. So goodbye Greda may you rest in peace with both Wayne and the so many animals you cared for.....you deserve a rest after all the tireless efforts you made while here on earth

Terry Moritz

October 6, 2009

Gerda was a woman of limitless compassion and patience; she never said "no" to any creature, be it injured or orphaned animal, distressed rescuer, or overwhelmed fellow rehabilitator. She will be sorely missed, as a nurturer, as an aide, and as a friend.

October 6, 2009

Thank you for all that you did when so many others just turned and looked the other way.

-Marianne Frattarola

Gwen East

October 6, 2009

The first time I met Gerda she was helping some voluteers make a special cake for their mothers for Mother's Day.

She radiated love, compassion and strength for her animals and her volunteers. She was and is the heart of Wildlife Rescue.

As heartwrenching as it is to be unable to talk to Gerda and to hug her she is with us. Every time we help an animal or a person Gerda is there. She will always remain in the hearts of everyone who was privelged to know her.

Meredith Callahan

October 6, 2009

There has never been a person to have such a impact on my life in the past, present and will continue to do so into the future. She has taught me so much and has given my children an exposure to animals that they will always carry with them. My children said that they will always think of Miss Gerda every time they see a squirrel, fox, deer, or any other animal. We love her and will always cherish our time with her.

Dorothy Snow

October 6, 2009

No creature was too small, too large or too "ordinary" for Gerda to tend with her hands and her heart. I thank God for blessing me with knowing her. Words cannot express how much she will be missed. My deepest sympathies to all her family and friends.
Love,
Dorothy

Angelina and Ryan Oncken

October 6, 2009

Gerda was not only a loving care taker of may animals, she was an amazing Aunt. I will really miss her and calling her when I just wanted to hear her voice. She will be missed my myself and my family. Even though she only met them once she touched them in so many ways! She was also the Godmother of my son, Noah and she will always be his Godmother. We love you Gerda and you will be missed so much!!!
Love,
Angelina, Ryan, Noah, Robyn, Kenneth, Lucy, Al and so many more peope!!!

Jessie Bennett

October 6, 2009

From the moment I walked through the door of the rescue, Gerda made me feel at home, trusted, and important, no matter how simple the tasks I did were. I was only able to spend one summer with her, but I feel so blessed to have had that short time. She was such an inspiration to me. She gave everything she had to her animals, living and loving with no reservations. She was a beautiful person. The first time my mom met her, she said that she was convinced Gerda was an angel. Gerda has always been an angel so I hope that, even though she isn't here in the same way anymore, her memory will serve to create just as much of a difference in the world. Thank you, Gerda.

Love,
Jessie

Peter Hynson

October 6, 2009

I wish to extend my very deepest sympathy to all of Gerda's sisters and her many nieces and nephews. I had the privilege of woking with Gerda and her many animals, including my foxes for many years. I will miss her deeply for her wonderful kindness to both me and the many animals she cared so much for.

Peter D. Hynson

October 6, 2009

We met Gerda and Wayne when they still lived in Dundalk. What wonderful and giving people. Gerda was so strong,caring,giving,loving,nuturing,etc. My husband,Jeff, and myself,Michele, were volunteers for alittle while. We are so so blessed that we got to cross paths with this ANGEL OF LIFE. She was truly an angel. Never to busy, never to many animals, she was a great mentor,teacher,PERSON. If you never got to meet Gerda, it was definitely your loss. We will miss her severely along with her wildlife friends. So Gerda, you soar up to the Rainbow Bridge, cross on over into Wayne's arms and all of Gods creatures,big and small, because you know one day all the people who go above and beyond with the animals, there is a special place for them in heaven. We will never forget you Gerda. We LOVE YOU and MISS YOU! Jeff & Michele Sanders Halethorpe, Md.

October 6, 2009

We are heartbroken and this is an extremely difficult and challenging time for all of us. Yes, Gerda was the heart of Wildlife Rescue, Inc. and we know there will never be another Gerda, but there will be a Wildlife Rescue, Inc, with the help of our incredible group of rehabilitators, volunteers and the thousands of Marylanders whose lives she touched and who will forever be blessed for having known such a selfless, caring, giving person. The BOARD OF DIRECTORS of Wildlife Rescue, Inc.

Linda Moul

October 6, 2009

Several years ago a friend gave me Gerda's name and phone number when I was struggling to keep two abandoned newborn kittens alive. Her advice and caring was a tremendous help to me. She will be missed terribly but her memory will live on through all those she inspired and helped.

Kim Pasta

October 6, 2009

I met Gerda two years ago when I took her an injured Aylesbury Duck. From day one, I was hooked by this amazing woman with a heart of gold not only for wildlife but for every human she encountered. She had such a kind, loving soul, always making sure that everyone was ok. I'll treasure each and every evening that we spent together. From the late night adventures of picking up injured animals, to our many personal conversations. She taught each of her volunteers so much and while I know it will never be the same without her, I know she wants us to continue to do what she loved. I miss her terribly but I have peace knowing that she is in heaven with Wayne, both of them continuing their work in heaven as they did on earth. I love you, Gerda!

pam stewart

October 6, 2009

Gerda was a wonderful human being who will be missed by many humans and many more animals. I met her when she still lived in dundalk and her home was filled with cages and boxes of animals in need. I still have the cat that she rescued as a kitten, he is now 11 years old and going strong. She is with her beloved animals over the Rainbow Bridge now. She is happy

Vernae Metzger

October 6, 2009

We have lost a truly incredible human being. Gerda gave more of herself to each and every creature in her care. This woman was amazing, unselfish, dedicated and the only person I have ever known that exhibited such a compassionate love for all creatures. It's with deep sadness she leaves us, but great joy for the many creatures who are waiting to welcome her home.

Michael Morrison

October 6, 2009

I know it sounds cliche, but words cannot express my feelings for Gerda. She did so much for everyone and everything God put on this earth and never one complaint. She was a true servant of God. She has taught me more then anyone can imagine, not only about animals, but about life...she treated me, as she did everyone, as a son. I love you Gert...Say Hi to Wayne, Angel, Sinbad and Rojo for me.

Alice Thompson

October 6, 2009

What a tremendous loss. Gerda was always there to help. I live in Baltimore City and care for TNR’d cat colonies. Because of the location of these colonies, I’d often come across other animals in need, e.g., a finch with a broken wing or a fox with mange. Gerda was always there to tell me what to do to help the animal. She was tireless, never too busy. . .

For years, our communications were over the phone. But I finally had the opportunity to meet her and see her beautiful, loving sanctuary a month or so ago. And I’m so thankful I did. My condolences to her family and her friends and volunteers. I know your hearts are breaking. . .

Laura Stepp

October 6, 2009

Gerda was truly an inspiration to anyone who was fortunate to meet her. Her love and commitment was endless, and she worked tirelessly and selflessly to save every being that crossed her path. She set an example for each of us to take with us throughout our lives. Take comfort in knowing that as each of Earth's creatures pass on, Gerda will be there to welcome them with a kiss and lots of love.

Sharon Mcguire

October 6, 2009

Gerda will be sadly missed, She has helped so many. I will never forget that day the injured eagle came in. Mike and I were just amazed to be so close to such a magnificent bird. Our thought are with the volunteers and all those who help at the wildlife rescue. as well as the family and friends.

Mike and Sharon Mcguire( Stanley Parrot Foundation) Pennsylvania

Mandi Creguer

October 6, 2009

Gerda blessed everyone she came in contact with. i feel so priveleged to have known her for the short time that i did.

Tracy Creguer

October 6, 2009

I met Gerda about a Year and Half ago and she was just the best she is very much like my grandma stubborn and good hearted. I will miss the nites we talked and the love we share for the bird. Thanks Gerda for everything you have taught me I will keep doing what you have taught and asked me to do for the rest of my life. I will pass your legacy on. May you rest in the hands of God for you was one of his angels here on earth.

Valerie Betts

October 6, 2009

Gerda was an amazing person, working with her two summers ago was a wonderful experience and visiting her while home from college on holiday was always something I looked forward to. I will miss those visits and animal talks. She was strong, devoted and gave me skills I will use through out my life. I'll miss her deeply and always remember our animal rescuing adventures. Gerda thank you for leaving such a impact on my life, the lives of animals and the lives of your volunteers. Love always- Valerie

Kim Filer

October 6, 2009

The first time I had ever heard of Gerda was about 6 years ago or so. On a cold snowy wintery day, I discovered a large black crow in my back yard with a broken wing. I didn't know what in the world to do. Someone referred me to Gerda. This dear woman drove in the snow to rescue this bird. When Gerda was able to catch the bird, she quickly wrapped him a small blanket and kissed him and said it will be OK now. I never have and never will forget Gerda, her kindness and dedication to all of God's Creatures. May you rest in Peace Special Lady.

Melissa Ford

October 6, 2009

Dear Gerda,
You were willing to help me pursue a role similiar to yours. I can not thank you enough for your support and knowledge that you have shared with me. What you have done for our native wildlife (and visitors from other areas) goes beyond any words of thanks and deserves the utmost in respect. Thank you Gerda. Thank you for being the glue that held this organization together, for taking the time to educate as many people as you could about Marylands inhabitants. I truly hope that we are able to honor your memory and keep it going. I wish I could have spent more time with you.
There will Peace in the Valley.
Love--Melissa

Gail Rice

October 6, 2009

You will always be in our hearts. God give us the strength to carry on Gerda's work.

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