Dr. Joanna Gerber

Joanna Seydel Gerber, M.D. passed away on Monday, October 17, 2022 at her home in West Hartford, Connecticut. Joanna was the daughter of Helmut Seydel and Anna-Luise Seydel (nee Lassen). She was born in 1938 in Berlin, Germany, where she grew up during World War II. She earned her medical degree at the Heidelberg University Faculty of Medicine. She trained to become an anesthesiologist and practiced at Hartford Hospital for 32 years, sub-specializing in obstetric anesthesia. A devoted physician with a kind and straightforward demeanor, she was trusted by countless patients and treasured by her colleagues. Joanna shared a special bond with her beloved daughter, Christina L. Gerber of New York City. They had many adventures together, enjoying trips to Europe, gourmet meals they prepared, time working in the garden, where her knowledge was vast, and visits to museums and galleries, where Joanna encouraged Christina's career in the arts. Joanna cared deeply about her community. She was a beloved member of Immanuel Congregational Church, a mainstay in the life of the church who brought people together. She initiated the planting of Jessie's Garden, which grew vegetables for the community and for Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen. As a Master Gardener, she shared her love of nature, volunteering with the Elizabeth Park Conservancy and supporting the student garden at Noah Webster School, where she tutored in reading. She was also a dedicated tutor with Literacy Volunteers of Hartford. She loved her daughter's many Miss Porter's School friends and their families. She was a generous hostess. Neighbors will recall the girls' laughter echoing from the third floor of the Gerber's home on Prospect Avenue, Hartford. She was a role model to many and will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She was predeceased by her sister Lotti Köhnlein and her former husband, Dr. William H. Gerber. Her memory will be cherished by her sister Marlies Haas, brothers Helmut Seydel and Christian and his wife Kristine Seydel, all of Germany; her sister-in-law Margaret Gerber Benedini and husband Attorney Ernesto Benedini of Lugano, Switzerland; and many loving nieces and nephews. They cherish the memory of Joanna's calm and thoughtful presence. A celebration of her life will be held at a date to be determined in the spring at Immanuel Congregational Church in Hartford. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in her honor to Loaves & Fishes Ministries, Inc., Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are being handled by The Ahern Funeral Homes, Inc., www.ahernfuneralhome.com.