Lynda Mae Van Driel-Gergen

Lynda Mae Van Driel-Gergen, age 77 of Coon Rapids, was born January 24, 1948 and died peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease on November 11, 2025.

She was a beloved wife and mother and is survived by her husband, Wayne Gergen, son Pat (Nicole) Gergen. She is also survived by her brothers Ken Van Driel, Doug Van Driel , Mike Van Driel and sisters Arty Heins, Deb Bennyhoff, along with countless nieces, nephews and dear friends.

She is preceded in death by parents Arthur and Rosena Van Driel and sister Glorya Stockinger.

Lynda's education included a Bachelor's Degree from St. Cloud State University, a Master's of Education from the University of Minnesota and an ABD (All But Doctorate) status in her Ph.D. program for Educational Leadership from the University of St. Thomas.

Throughout her career, she was a teacher at Byron High School and Roosevelt Middle School, Director of Gifted and Talented Program (staff development, curriculum and instruction) at Anoka Hennepin School District, Vice Principal at Jackson Middle School, Head Principal at Northdale Middle School, and Director of University Graduate Education Programs (Associate Professor) at Bethel College.

Lynda was a world traveler for 40+ years. She loved learning new things and enjoyed self-education. She played the piano, loved the Guthrie Theater, and was quite the dinner party host. She had the ability to make friends everywhere she went.

Lynda Van Driel was a valued and active member of the Rotary Club of Coon Rapids. Lynda was the first female member inducted into the Coon Rapids Rotary Club in 1988-89. Prior to that the Rotary Club was only men, and so when women were admitted, Lynda was the very first to be recommended for membership. She was also the very first female President of the Coon Rapids Rotary Club in the 1990s.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 21st at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour before at the Church of St. Timothy, 707 89th Ave NE in Blaine with a luncheon immediately following at Bunker Hills Event Center in Coon Rapids.

A special thank you as well to Southern Oaks for taking such wonderful care of our Lynda during her time of need.

In lieu of flowers, our family asks that a donation be made to a local chapter of Meals on Wheels.