Ellen Gereke

Ellen L. Gereke

A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m., Friday, June 1, 2007, at LaGrone Funeral Chapel for Ellen L. Gereke, 82, of Las Cruces, who passed away Tuesday, May 8, 2007. Rev. Harley Parnell of Aldersgate Methodist Church will conduct the serivce.

Ellen was born June 3, 1924 in Kansas City, Mo., to George A. and Madeleine S. Whitsett, who both preceded her in death. She attended Christian College in Columbia, Mo. for two years and transfered to the University of Missouri where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree. She was a member of Delta Gamma Sorority. After graduation she returned to Kansas City where she was employed by Hall Brother's Inc., makers of Hallmark Greeting Cards.

She married her beloved husband, Jack T. Gereke on May 27, 1950. He preceded her in death.

She is survived by her two sons, Jack Gereke, Jr., of Las Cruces, and Jeff Gereke of Tucson, Ariz; one daughter, Jean Brush, of Santa Cruz, Calif.; and two grandsons, Richard Brush of Santa Cruz, Calif. and Brian Gereke of Tucson, Ariz.

Ellen had been a resident of Roswell since January of 1970. She was a member of Aldersgate Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir and served as financial secretary for many years. In April, 2006, Ellen moved to the Arbors of Del Rey in Las Cruces.

Friends may make memorials to Aldersgate Methodist Church of a charity of their choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of LaGrone Funeral Chapel.