Alison Gmerek

Alison Gmerek

Alison Gmerek Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Aug. 12 to Aug. 13, 2008.
GMEREK - Alison (McLean) Aug. 10, 2008. Wife of Jay Gmerek; mother of Jayme, Kristen, and Elise Gmerek; daughter of Ronald and Carolyn (Peters) McLean; sister of Scott (Mary Kate), and John (Elizebeth) McLean. Freinds may call Wed from 2-4 and 6-9PM at the (West Seneca Chapel) THOMAS H. MCCARTHY FUNERAL HOME 250 Orchard Park Rd. (Same location as Sieck and Mass Funeral Home) 825-4455. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday at St. Joseph University Church, 3269 Main St. at 10 AM. Please assemble at church. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Alison Gmerek Memorial at Nardin Accademy, 135 Cleveland Dr. Buffalo, NY 14222

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September 10, 2008

Jeff and Jacque' Andersen posted to the memorial.

September 10, 2008

Trish Berchtold and family posted to the memorial.

September 9, 2008

George & Regina von Burg posted to the memorial.

Jeff and Jacque' Andersen

September 10, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen, Elise, Carolyn and Ron,

We are so sorry for the loss you are feeling as you miss Alison. You are frequently in our prayers that you might feel God's comfort and closeness.

Jay, you and Alison were a warm welcome to Jeff and me when we moved to Hong Kong. Jeff remembers your warm invitation to the Emmaus weekend and Alison's warmth and whole-hearted enthusiasm leading the worship music.

Alison was my running buddy. She introduced me to the Tai Tam trails-Despite the hills, somehow we were always able to talk :-) I remember her sharing that when she ran alone, she often prayed for her family and loved ones from some of the hill tops- That touched me then and it is how I think of her now-still showering love and warmth on her family and loved ones; only praying for them from slightly higher hilltops-

Hope this brings you the comfort it does me-

Love and continued prayers,

Trish Berchtold and family

September 10, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen, and Elise,
It has been an incredible blessing to know Alison and your beautiful family. We will always remember Alison for her zest for life, her infectious laugh, her incredible courage and her unshakable faith! What an inspiration she was to all who knew her. She touched so many in her brief but purposeful life here on earth. We pray that the Lord may be a tremendous source of strength for you all in the days ahead and that His peace that passes all understanding will be with you always.
Much love and prayers.

George & Regina von Burg

September 9, 2008

Dear Jay, girls and family,
It was beautiful to be connected with you at Alison's memorial service at St. Anne's. We love you guys and our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you, as we, too, grieve for Alison, an amazing friend and much loved sister. I am so grateful that I had a chance to visit Al in Buffalo last September and I feel privileged and glad that she included and engaged us so much in the joys and struggles of her life's journey these past few years.
May the Lord cover you with his peace and may your tears turn into joy as you remember the wonderful times you shared.
Much love,
George and Regina

Betty de Sousa

September 5, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen, Elise, and Alison's parents, Mr. and Mrs. McLean,
Just a short note to say what a privilege it was to share in the lives of faithfilled, saintly people, like you. Alison's, and your, strength reached accross the world and touched so many lives. Her passing from this life to a better one, still leaves a void, and you know more than I do, only God can fill it. My prayers and love continue for you all. God's Blessings,
Betty de Sousa (Trinidad, West Indies...Susan Romano's sister)

Amelia & Steve Marcopoto

September 4, 2008

Dearest Jay, Jayme, Kristen, Elise, Ron and Carolyn,
It was with deepest sadness that we heard of Alison's passing. She was blessed and shared her gifts, light and humour generously. Her face in the photo at the Memorial at St Anne's in Hong Kong glowed with the joy she took in life and her beloved family.
Jayme, we saw you most as Stephen's classmate in Mrs Sathyaraj's 2nd grade class - you have so much of your mom's loveliness in you.
You are all in our prayers and thoughts, Amelia, Steve, Stephen and Talia Marcopoto

MARLENE NESLUND

September 4, 2008

Dear Jay and Girls,
Alison was an inspiration for so many people, before and during her suffering. She will remain in the hearts of many who loved her. May God help you with this tremendous loss. My daily prayes will include you all.
Sincerely, Marlene Neslund (Chicago and San Antonio)

aissa montecillo

September 4, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen and Elise,
We feel blessed to have seen you all and spent time with Alison in Summer 2007. I will never forget the warm welcome you extended to us in your home :-)
It was wonderful to have you "join us" on Skype during the Memorial Mass for Alison. The Mass was an expression of our love for Alison & your family. Amazing how people came forward to help put it all together!
Love always--Dennis, Aissa, Alan and Victoria Montecillo

Jeanne and Michel Yasso

September 4, 2008

The celebration ceremony in Buffalo was so inspirational, a true testament to Allison and her family. We have great memories of our time together. We will hold all of you in our thoughts and prayers.

Yolanda Kuchibhotla

August 29, 2008

Jay, Jaymie, Kristen, Elise and the Mc Leans family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember the beautiful three girls. Elise was the little baby.
Hong Kong was a big turning point for my family and Alison was part of it. She was there for my first bible studies. Her thirst to learn about the Lord, her faith, the communion of sharing a more transcending purpose in life, will always be with me.
May you feel the warm, comforting embrace of the Lord during these times of grief. You know you will see her again.

Love,

Yolanda Kuchibhotla

Steve Penberthy

August 21, 2008

Jay and Family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you in this difficult time. From everything that I 've heard and seen is that Alison was a wonderful person in every way. Her influence will live on to all who knew her.
My deepest sympathies to you all.

JoAnn Greenzweig

August 20, 2008

McLeans and Gmereks - my deepest sympathies on your loss. You know Ali is now at peace and watching us all, living here through family and friends and fond memories that last forever. Sincerely, best wishes.

Steve and Michele Heyman

August 20, 2008

Dear Gmereks and McLeans - so sorry to hear of Ali's passing. Be comforted that she is now at peace.

The Liberto Family

August 19, 2008

Jay, Jaymie, Kristen & Elise,
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Alison. Alison was a very caring and lovely person. We will all miss her lovely smile and neighborly friendship. Your family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. If you need anything please reach out to us, we are here for you. God Bless.

Sue Carbone

August 19, 2008

Dear Jay & Daughters,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your dear wife & mom. May God's peace surround you and bring you comfort at this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jeanne (Yap) DeHart

August 19, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen and Elise,
I was so sorry to hear of Alison's passing. She was an amazing lady and an inspiration to us all. Alison was a huge encourager to me when I was going through a very difficult period of time in Hong Kong. I will never forget that. She had a faith that wouldn't quit, and I so admired that. "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26 Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy.

Vicki Rich

August 18, 2008

Dear Jay and Family,
I just learned of Alison's passing yesterday and I am still in shock. Our trips to Hong Kong were always made more enjoyable by you and Alison and our wonderful dinners and shopping trips. We had such special times with you. Alison was such a gracious person and such a wonderful complement to you. I can't imagine how much you will miss her (yes, I can a little), but I am sure you know how blessed you are to have had her in your lives. All I can say is that I am truly sorry. She was a very special person. Much love and profound sympathy, Vicki.

Yuke-Meng Tan

August 18, 2008

Dear Jay, Jaymie, Kirsten & Elise,
I have and will always admire Alison as the champion of champions, one who had fought the good fight of the faith and pursued righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness in faithful stewardship of her many gifted talents. She is a precious inspiration for us who are still running the race. My thoughts and prayers are with you today. With my love.

Tom, Amy, Tommy Willson (Southtown Stars)

August 17, 2008

Jay and Girls,
We are profoundly sad to hear of your loss. We did not know Alison, but by knowing you, she must have been a wonderful wife and mother. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Patty Daddario

August 16, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen, Elise, Carolyn and Ron,

It has been a wonderful gift meeting and getting to know Alison. Thanks to Jill and Kristen becoming friends in second grade! We instantly became friends and the distance didn't keep us apart. It is true what the "For Good" song from the musical "Wicked" says and that is...I have definately been changed for good because I knew her.

You all should be so proud to have had such a wonderful person and a wife, mother and daughter. She is one in a million. I will miss her so very much.

Love,
Patty Daddario and family

Patty Daddario

August 16, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen and Elise,

Meeting all of you through Jill and Kristen's inital friendship has been such a blessing. Alison and I became friends immediately. I have loved the time I spent with her and the memories are beautiful. It is true what the "Wicked" song says in "For Good", that she came into my life for a reason and I have truly been changed for good.

Many prayers and good thoughts for all of you. It truly is a heartbreak.

Love,
Patty Daddario

Gerald Von Vreckin

August 16, 2008

Dear Carolyn & Family, Was really shocked to hear about your loss. You have our sympathy.

Donna Koehneke

August 16, 2008

Dear Jay and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with your family, as you struggle through these difficult days. I have the most wonderful memories of your family at HKIS during your Hong Kong years. Alison was a wonder parent volunteer when I had the pleasure of having Jayme in my preschool (R1) class, and Elise in Kindergarten (R2). I knew Kristen as "their sister." Alison's strong faith and commitment to Christ was evident in all she said and did. Family was so important to her. You all have a very important job to carry on without her. For I know the plans that I have for you...plans to give you hope and a future.
God bless you all. Jeremiah 29:11
Donna Koehneke, Hong Kong

Margaret Pfeiffer

August 15, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristin & Elise,
I am so very sorry for your loss. It is very evident that Alison touched so many lives so deeply. She will live on in those who she has influenced & shared her life with. I will keep you in my prayers

brian donna courtney bryan gracee and gavin donovan

August 15, 2008

To The Gmerek Family..
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Donovans

Amy Schaefer

August 15, 2008

Dear Gmerek family: Our family is deeply saddened by the loss of Ali, a wife, mother, cousin, aunt, friend, someone who has touched so many. I met Ali in Toledo from our wonderful friends the Natyshaks. How blessed we were to have know her for the short time we did. The girls and Jay have a long jorney till they see her again. The memories and wisdom she has left to them is powerful. Ali was beautiful inside and out! Hugs to the family!

Joe McGuire

August 15, 2008

Jay: very sad to hear fo your loss. God Bless you and your family.

Theresa & Kevin Von Vreckin

August 15, 2008

Dear Ron and Carolyn,
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jay, and Alison's children.

Kevin & Terry Von Vreckin

August 15, 2008

McLean & Gmerek families,

Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of Alison, such a beautiful young person to be taken so early in life.

May your faith guide you in this time of sadness.

God Bless!

Leonard & Cheryl Gaw

August 15, 2008

We are so saddened by your great loss.Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God bless and keep you all.

Carleen & Les Menkes

August 15, 2008

Dear Jay Jayme Kristen and Elise
I am so sorry to hear about Alison. She was such a dear friend to me in our days together in Hong Kong. More like a big sister to me than a friend. I wish I could do something to ease your pain. I lost my mother to breast cancer when I was 24. I still miss her after 18 years. I like to think she still watches over me. I know Alison will be watching over you.
With Deepest Sympathy

Maggie Sommers-Higgins

August 14, 2008

Dear Jay and Family:
My heart goes out to all of you. Ali was a wonderful person who impacted so many of our lives with laughter and friendship. I am thankful for the many fun times spent with Alison,Julie and Sue. She was a beautiful person and inspiration to all of us especially my sister Julie Lunghino. Thanks for the memories and we will all be praying for you and the girls and family. Today truly was "a beautiful day"

Mike and Diane Zimmer

August 14, 2008

Dear Carolyn and Jay and family:
We are out of state this week however our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you. The Lord loves her so much, He wanted Ali bACK ASAP. When our purpose is fulfilled we too will be rejoined with them in heavenly bliss.
SHALOM,

Steve, Jodi, Cooper, Clara, Colby Hayes

August 14, 2008

We are so sorry for the loss of Alison. She was a beautiful and loving person. Our family will keep our memories of Alison and her family alive. We will continue to pray for all of you.

Destiny Wilkinson (RPCI)

August 14, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Nardin Student

August 13, 2008

Mrs. Gmerek's family:
Mrs. Gmerek was a great addition to the Nardin community. She will never be forgotten and will always be appreciated. I've never met a teacher so eager to share with us. She gave us her wholehearted attention and taught with an unwavering sense of care. Use the good memories to get through the bad days. May she rest in peace.

Sharon & Joe Szmidt

August 13, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen, Elise, Ron & Carolyn,
I cannot tell you how deeply I feel about your wife, mother, daughter... how she shed light on all who were blessed to be in her presence. You know this already, but those of us who knew her through other avenues, through Bible study, Church, hanging around the pool... wherever, couldn't help but be drawn to her. The love living through her was so tangeable and truly inspires me. The love she had for you, her family, was steadfast and true. I am and will always be in awe of this beautiful woman. May I learn to love like Alison! Joe and I send our deepest sympathy and want you to know that we are praying for you all now and in the years to come.

Debra & Bob Dewing

August 13, 2008

To Jay, and the girls and parents, I send my absolute thankfulness for the love and guidance Alison has brought to my life. It is through Alison that I have grown in faith through bible study and come to know each of you as well. Her love, energy, and spirit have been a most wonderful blessing, which I will carry forever. I will do my best to be one of the bearers of Alison's torch! Our family prayers are with you all. I hope to see her in heaven! Jay, we will support you and the girls in any and all ways which will be helpful to you. Love always,
Debra and family

The Greiner's

August 13, 2008

Jay, Jamye, Kristen and Elise, (Tye)
We are sorry for your loss. Alison (mom) was always there with a huge smile and an encouraging word anytime we were together. Our memories will be of that HUGE smile and wonderful attitude.

a friend

August 13, 2008

Jesus walked into the room,
and sat upon her bed.
He looked into her glassy eyes,
and stroked her soft brown head.

Then Jesus rose and took her hand,
He'd come to take her home.
She began to rise and follow Him,
But stopped upon the bed's shiny chrome.

She had always been a selfless girl,
Put her family before her mind.
And while she was in paradise,
What about the family she'd leave behind?

But in loving hearts her family said,
(They'd been sure to let her know)
That she'd be safe and happy there,
It was okay for her to go.

So she took the hand of Jesus,
to follow him to the Lord.
She was ready to go to be with,
The one that she adored.

And as the light grew brighter.
She took just one backwards glance.
She could not wait 'til her family,
came Home with her at last.

August 13, 2008

John and Linda Sinclair

August 13, 2008

Jay and family,
Our deepest sympathies on your loss. Alison's spirit will be with you always.

Kim Wilkens

August 13, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen, Elise & McLean Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We have many fond memories of Alison and your family from our 3 years in Hong Kong. Alison was truly a special person who was an inspiration to all. She will always be remembered for her kindness, warmth and energy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Chris, Kim, Kelly & Brian Wilkens

Tony Olivo

August 13, 2008

To The Gmerek Family..Our deepest sympathy for your loss. "Allie" was truly a ray of sunshine in all of our lives. We will miss her dearly and forever hold her in our hearts!
You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Marie Mastrangelo

August 13, 2008

Dear Gmerek family,

I'm so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Gmerek was a true blessing in the Nardin community. It was an honor to be her student. Walking into her class, I could always count on her being in an up-beat mood, brightening everyones day! Even though she only taught at Nardin for a year, her memory will never be forgotten. Your family is in my prayers through this difficult time. Find comfort in the fact that she is watching down on you from heaven. God Bless.

Donna Bartolone

August 13, 2008

Dear Carolyn and Ron and Family,
All of you have had such courage and faith.
You are truely blessed to have loved so dearly and been in Ali's life through everything.
I did not meet her but share your loss and pray for you and all of the family.
Love, Donna Bartolone

Jennifer Fecio McDougall

August 13, 2008

To Alison's family:

I will always remember Alison's friendly smile; everyone spoke of her with such respect and affection. As a member of the Nardin family, I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to meet her.

I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

God Bless you.

Jenn
(Nardin co-worker and Nardin alum)

Janice Horn

August 13, 2008

Dear Jay and Family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We know Alison's spirit will live on through the many people she touched.
With deepest sympathy,
Janice and John Horn

Jill Maiorana

August 13, 2008

Dear Mr. and Mrs. McLean, Jay and Family,
I recently learned of Alison's illness and now her passing. Nothing can be more devastating. Although I have lost touch with Alison over the years I have many wonderful and fun memories of her. She was truly a bright spirit and am lucky to have been part of her life. My heart and prayers are with all of you.

Santana family

August 13, 2008

Gmerek family, we are so sorry for your loss. We know that it is very difficult right now, but hold your head up and remember your mom as a hero. If you every need anything don't ever hesitate to ask. We are praying for you every day.

Maureen Higgins

August 13, 2008

Dear Jay and girls,
Even though I have never met you in person, Alison talked so much about all of you. You were all the apple of her eye! Alison touched the Nardin community and will never be forgotten. She would greet me each day with that wonderful smile of hers and always had an upbeat greeting for me. I will continue to prayer for all of you but always remember she is just a smile away. Moe Higgins, Secretary @ Nardin Academy

Nardin Student

August 13, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Shelly & Chris Connelly

August 13, 2008

MaryKay, Scott and Alison's Family,
My brief meeting with Alison was one that was truly memorable. She was a warm, energetic and positive individual. Our hearts go out to you and your family in your time of sorrow. You all will be in our prayers.

Frank Kramer

August 13, 2008

Ron, Carolyn, Jay and Family,

Although I never met Alison, through Carolyn's "updates" (e-mails), I came to "know" and admire her so very much. The family did everything possible in supporting, encouraging and loving her every step of the way. I am truly honored to be your friend. Love and prayers.

Gina McCreary

August 13, 2008

Sometimes when there are just no words, God gives you someone elses to say it all. To me, this was the essence of Alison..." So what will matter? How will the value of your days be measured? What will matter is not what you got, but what you gave. What will matter is not what you learned, but what you taught. What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or sacrifice that enriched, empowered, or encouraged others to emulate your example. Living a life that matters doesn't happen by accident. It's not a matter of circumstances but of choice". Alison chose to live a life that mattered. She taught us, inspired us, loved us, and changed our lives forever. She is in training for the service of the King and the Kingdom that is to come because she was a mighty, obedient soldier for God. I am honored and blessed to have called her my friend. May the Lord bless us and keep us all until we are with her again!!!

Michael Galante

August 13, 2008

Jay,
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.

Paul Herlan

August 13, 2008

Dear Jay...I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Alison. Please know that you and your daughters are in my thoughts and prayers. Good bless...Paul Herlan

Gerri DeLisle

August 13, 2008

Jay and Girls,
We are so saddened by your great loss that no words can describe. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
The DeLisles, Mark, Gerri, Ross, Reed & Grant

Trish Hudson

August 13, 2008

Jay: words cannot adequately express our feelings upon hearing of Alison's passing. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
- The Hudson Family

Suzanne Manning

August 13, 2008

Dear Jay,

Words cannot begin to express the sorrow that I feel for you and your family. I have been praying for Alison for some time now, and I am so sad to hear of her passing. May you all find comfort in your wonderful memories of her, and thank God that she was a part of your lives, if only for a short time.

Breindel Family

August 13, 2008

Jay and family, Alison will now be your guardian angel. We will miss her cheering from the sidelines at soccer games. Never a negative comment! She inspired all she met. With deepest sympathy,

Mave Milligan

August 13, 2008

Dear Jay & Girls,
We are so very, very sorry for your loss and cannot imagine how tragic this is for all of you. We have been praying hard for Alsion at the Newman Center for the past two years.

Alsion was so energetic, smart, & professional when we first met 20 years ago. Then getting to know how kind she was as well was all the better. We remember you all as a young family in Kenmore and what a great Mom Alsion was from day one.

I lost my Mom when I was 14 to breast cancer and it is simply awful. I am praying for much healing for your girls and would be happy to talk with them more down the road. They are so BLESSED to have had Alsion as their Mom for the years that they did and she will always be with them.

You are all in our thoughts and prayers and hope you hearts are able to heal...
With much sympathy,
Mave & Thom Milligan & Family

Keepin' it real!!!! Rock on!!!

August 12, 2008

Bible babes Slumber party!!!!!!

August 12, 2008

"Give us this day our daily bread"

August 12, 2008

Allison Stokholm

August 12, 2008

Dear Jay - Please know that my thoughts are with you and your girls. Alison was such an upbeat happy person and I so enjoyed our many conversations in Hong Kong. May peace eventually come to you.
Allison Stokholm

Bill, Garol, Ali and Nina Orr

August 12, 2008

Sad does not seem like a big enough word to express how we feel about the passing of Alison. Our family feels like one of the best things about living in Hong Kong was meeting the Gmerek's - especially Thanksgiving 2002. Alison is such light and warmth and fun too. Jay, we love you and the girls.

Ann & Don Boyd

August 12, 2008

Jay and girls,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad and difficult time. I regret never having had the honor of meeting her, I heard such wonderful things about her over the years. I have kept her and your family in my prayers. May your memories, love and faith bring you peace and strength.

Jill (Bacon) Spira

August 12, 2008

Dear Jay, the girls and the McLean Family, Knowing Alison was a refreshing burst of life. She was a true friend who always remembered every important date in all of her many friend's lives. Our numerous girlfriend trips and times spent together are cherished. I am fortunate to have shared her friendship. Missing her and thinking of her family.

Deborah Kish

August 12, 2008

Jay and girls,

Our thoughts are with you. Rob and I have many fond memories of Alison. She was a beautiful person inside and out.
Deborah (Vaeth) Kish and Rob Kish

Jenna Nowakowski

August 12, 2008

Dear Mr.Gmerek,Kristen,jayme,and elise;
im so very sorry that your mom and wife died. we will all miss her. and she will watch out for you all as your guardian angel forever. even though she died young, god needed her as one of his angels. she will always be remembered. you are all strong, you will get through this. love you.
~Jenna Nowakowski

Nardin Student

August 12, 2008

Mr. Gmerek and daughters,
I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Gmerek was an amazing person, and she was a true blessing to the Nardin Community. Although she was only there a year, she will never be forgotten. She always brightened a day with her smile. I will continue to pray for your family during these hard times. God takes the best they say, and Mrs. Gmerek was a true angel sent from heaven. I know she will continue to watch over you all, while with the Lord. God bless.

julie Lunghino

August 12, 2008

I will always carry fond memories of great times shared with Alison! She is truly one of a kind. I loved her from the time we met and am grateful for her friendship. She's given me so much joy! God bless all of you that loved her too! Julie Lunghino

Cristy Dratz

August 12, 2008

Dear Jay and girls,
So sorry for your loss. Alison will forever remain a symbol of faith and bravery.
Cristy

Patty (Cunningham) Jeffries

August 12, 2008

MaryKay, Scott and All of Alison's family and friends. I have known Alison since High School at Mt St Mary's. She is truly a wonderfully energetic person, positive and kind to everyone. I have fond memories of her smiling face and fun attitude(about our dates!!) at my junior post-prom party. Her life is one to celebrate! My prayers are with all of you and especially Alison.
I'm so sorry.

Judy Tucker

August 12, 2008

Carolyn and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you to feel God's peace and love during this time. The images I see are Jesus carrying you, like in the footprints poem and also of Jesus embracing Alison as He welcomes her home. God bless you all!

Demjanenko Family

August 12, 2008

We are sorry to hear about your loss. We will continue to pray for your family.

Barbara Siano

August 12, 2008

Dear Jay,
Our thoghts and prayers are with you and the girls now and always. Although it has been a long time since we've been in touch we have never forgotten your family and the Saturday morning soccer games with the girls. Alison's infectious spirit will never be forgotten. Her contributions to the communities she's been apart of has made a lasting impression.
With deepest sympathy,
Jim,Barbara, Kristen, Lauren, Taren and JT Siano

John's friend Lupe Trevizo-Hernandez

August 12, 2008

My thoughts & prayers go out to the entire McLean/Gmerek family and especially her girls. Alison & I became long distance pen pals as a result of working with her brother John in Sacramento, CA. Being a rocking chair Catholic, I felt the need to reach out to Alison. So when John went to visit the Gmerek family...was it '05 or '06? I sent some small gifts to a complete stanger, who I later prayed for. And when she was making arrangements to go to Lourdes, I found some prayer cards, a Lourdes travel guide & other Catholic stuff - mailed them to her to make her trip a bit easier. I prayed for her ~ a Hail Mary while sometimes walking to my car. I had just lost my father 8/10/05 and knew how important God & prayer can be...I continued to pray. Now she's not in pain & watching over her family from above ~ I am sad & hearbroken to hear she has passed. May God Bless you all for having such a courageous woman, wife, mommy, daughter, sister & friend in your lives. I will continue to pray...Dios los vendiga! Ave Maria...que estas en los cielos ---

Nicole Jones (& family)

August 12, 2008

Dear Jay, Jayme, Kristen, & Elise:
I will always remember Alison for her love of family and zest for life, mostly her perky personality. And, the four of you are nothing less than courageous. I pray that each passing day provides you with comfort and peace.
God Bless,

Kim Lupkin

August 12, 2008

Jay and family: I just heard the extremely sad news of Alison's passing. She was honestly of the most friendly people I have ever met and when I saw her in Wegmans last year I knew it was her hen I saw that beautiful smile. Please know we are thinking of you at this most difficult time. Our sincere condolences,
Kim and Urmas Lupkin

Michael Lewandowski

August 12, 2008

My God Bless Alison and her Family during this difficult time. My Prayers and thoughts are with you all.

Scot and Ginny Boniface

August 12, 2008

Jay,
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Grief is the price you pay for having loved and we know you and the girls are deeply grieving.

Grace Maylin

August 12, 2008

Dear family of Ali,
There are few, if any words to say at a time like this. I have found that memories and 'moments' are what sustain us best. They are what give us the courage to have faith for tomorrow. That, and the love you cherish~is what will keep Ali's beautiful spirit alive forever...
My prayers and thoughts continue to be with and for you,
Love, Grace

Bob Madden

August 12, 2008

Though I hadn't seen Alison in over 15 years I will always remember her for how genuinely kind she was towards others. She certainly made this world a better place in which to live.

Susan Lisker

August 12, 2008

My prayers and thoughts are with your family. May you find comfort in your warm memories.

Marylou Mercurio

August 12, 2008

Carolyn, Ron, Jay and family. a new day is dawning. My prayers are with you, Always,

Nardin Student

August 12, 2008

I'm grateful for the privilege of having Mrs. Gmerek this year as a morality teacher. She was a ray of light in all of her students' lives and her short time spent in the Nardin community will never be forgotten. May she rest in peace.

Mary Ann Logaridis

August 12, 2008

Dear Jay & your lovely daughters,

It was my great pleasure to assist Allison with the travel arrangements for your trip at Easter 2007. She had such an infectious enthusium in planning the Paris and Lourdes stays.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers, she was a great lady.
Regards, Mary Ann Logaridis

Eileen Tomaka

August 12, 2008

My three little Gmerek Girls, I am so sorry for your loss. Knowing your Mom, she'll be watching you every step of the way. Make her proud. Love Mrs. Tomaka/Ellicott Elem.

Tom, Linda, Caroline and Laurie Beth Koller

August 12, 2008

Jay: Alison may have left us, but her legacy, her spirit will live on forever! How wonderful it must be to be remembered by so many people, as Alison is, people she touched with her warmth, her generosity, her courage and her faith. I found it appropriate that Sunday's Gospel reminded us all to believe in Christ and His promise of life after death! I believe - and I know everyone who has ever met Alison does too - that she is finally free of her pain and still touching us from up above, from heaven! Our prayers and thoughts are with you and the family. God bless.

Jennifer and John Hubert

August 12, 2008

To the Gmerek/McLean family,
Words cannot express our sorrow. Alison's bright spirit has always been an inspiration in both faith and character. We are grateful to have called her a friend.
Sincerely,

Anya Furey

August 12, 2008

We are so sorry to hear about Alison's passing. Out thoughts and prayers are with you.
God bless you all and may you find peace and comfort in God's love.

Amanda Matyjas

August 12, 2008

I'm so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Nicholas Labedzki

August 12, 2008

Jay, Jayme, Kristen, and Elise,

The Labedzki-Belson Family sends our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry. We are making a donation to http://cms.komen.org/komen/index.htm

All Our Love,
Nick, Justine, Czesa, and Elvie

David & Blossom Ruso

August 12, 2008

Our deepest sympathy to the Gmerek and McLean families on the passing of Alison. You are in our prayers.

Chris and Joe Black

August 12, 2008

To the family, I'm so sorry for your loss, our prayers and thoughts are with you. You all have an angel in heaven to watch over you. She is at peace and free of pain.

Jack & Evelyn Rafferty

August 12, 2008

There are no words for your loss, just prayers

Toni Violanti

August 12, 2008

She was and always will be my
beautiful Bible Babe, she encouraged
me always and gave me great strength and love...I can not wait to
see you again my friend!

Maria M. Fera-Payssa

August 12, 2008

I am sorry to hear of Allison's passing. She was a wonderful person. I have many fond memories of her at St. Christopher's. May god watch upon her, Jay, their children and her family. God bless, Maria (Fera) Payssa

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Sign Alison Gmerek's Guest Book

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September 10, 2008

Jeff and Jacque' Andersen posted to the memorial.

September 10, 2008

Trish Berchtold and family posted to the memorial.

September 9, 2008

George & Regina von Burg posted to the memorial.