Eva Lou Gerritsen

1933 - 2015

Eva Lou Gerritsen September 15, 1933 - December 2, 2015 VALLEY CENTER Eva Lou Gerritsen lived a long and successful life. She passed away peacefully on December 2, 2015, surrounded by her loving family. Eva suffered from the effects of multiple myeloma for ten years and was very gracious, never complaining about her severe pain. However, in keeping with her character, Eva considered herself to be blessed and was thankful for the time she had with her family. She realized there were many who had it worse off than she did. She believed that she was living with cancer - not dying from cancer - and lived her life to the fullest.Eva was born in Pendleton, OR, on September 15, 1933. She spent her childhood years there with her sister and three brothers. In 1969, she married Rodney Gerritsen and moved to Valley Center, CA. It was there they lovingly raised their children, including five children from a previous marriage. They attended Emmanuel Faith Community Church in Escondido, CA.Eva and Rodney spent many years improving property together. She also enjoyed sewing, gardening, tennis, and especially loved cooking and baking. But most of all, she was devoted to her family.Eva is survived by her husband of 46 years Rodney Gerritsen and seven children: Diana Pendell, Debra Sharkey, Denise Ruddiman, Douglas Dalton, Darcy Young, Kim Johnson, and Rod Gerritsen. Eva is also survived by seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.A celebration of life will be held on Friday, December 18, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Faith Community Church 639 E.17th Ave. Escondido, CA. A reception will follow at the church.