Geraldine "Gerri" DeGeorge

ASHTABULA - Geraldine "Gerri" Susan DeGeorge, 91, died Saturday, December 7, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born February 11, 1933, in Ashtabula, Ohio, the daughter of Anthony and Susan (Altomare) Carano and had been a lifelong Ashtabula resident. A 1951 graduate of Ashtabula High School, she married Lawrence Bruno DeGeorge the following year. In 1952, Gerri and Bruno had a dream - opening the finest restaurant in Ashtabula County, serving the best food in a clean and friendly atmosphere. Following Bruno's passing in 1995, Gerri and her son David continued to operate Lakeway, which was a staple of the Ashtabula community and the go-to place to eat for many Ashtabula families for decades. A cornerstone of her family and community, she lived a remarkable life of love, service and dedication that spanned 91 years. Gerri was more than a restauranteur; she was a caretaker in every sense of the word. Gerri found her greatest joy in her work at her cherished restaurant, Lakeway. Even in her free time, she could often be found there, embracing her passion and dedication to her craft. You couldn't step foot into Lakeway without being recognized. You were acknowledged, you were appreciated, you were loved. Whether in the kitchen rolling out handmade pasta, baking her delicious pies, at the dining table sharing stories, or in the quiet moment spent tending to her loved ones, she had a way of making everyone feel cherished. Her warmth extended beyond her family to anyone fortunate enough to cross her path. She often referred to her customers and employees as "family." She believed that food was love made visible and lived her life proving it, one plate at a time. She made sure to remind those she loved to not work "too hard", and to "do what you want because no tomorrow is guaranteed." Above all, Gerri treasured her loyal dog, Coco, who brought endless love and comfort to her life. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in every delicious meal, every story shared and every act of love. Her legacy is one of devotion– to her family, her community, and her craft. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Kathy (Douglas) Stevens, David (Victoria) DeGeorge, Lawrence (Karen) DeGeorge; her grandchildren, Stacy (Patrick) Talcott, Lindsay (Jason) Hagerdon, Bradley (Erin) Mather, Jennie (James) Callaway, Angela (Adam Bahr) DeGeorge, Anthony (Alexandra) DeGeorge, Gianna DeGeorge; her great-grandchildren, Danica, Brooke, Sadie (Talcott), Parker, Payton (Hagerdon), Lillianna, Bradley (Mather) Sebastian, Penelope, and Izabella (Callaway); her niece, Jeannie (Elliot Godleski) Carano, and countless friends who became family over the years. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Lawrence Bruno DeGeorge; her second husband, Michael Patrick; her brother, Carl "Spanky" Carano; her nephew, Carl "Spanky" Carano, Jr.; and her parents with whom she shared a partnership of unparalleled love. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bishop, Traditions Hospice, Jeannie Carano, Jennifer Brockway, Carla Hague and all the dedicated healthcare providers for their unwavering kindness, dedication, and love during this difficult time. Your care brought comfort and peace, and your efforts will always be deeply appreciated. In her memory, we invite you to join us in celebrating her incredible life. Calling hours will be from 4-8PM Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at the ZABACK-WILLIAMS-DUCRO FUNERAL HOME, 500 West Prospect Road, Ashtabula and from 10-11AM on Wednesday December 11, 2024 at Our Lady of Peace - Mt. Carmel Church, 1200 East 21st Street, Ashtabula. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11AM Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Our Lady of Peace - Mt. Carmel Church, 1200 East 21st Street, Ashtabula. The Rev. Raymond Thomas will preside. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ashtabula Animal Protective League (APL), Our Lady of Peace Parish, or ARMC Foundation. Online guestbook and obituary at www.ducro.com