Lois M. Gerken

Lois M. Gerken, 80, of Damascus, Pennsylvania, formerly of North Haledon, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026. Born on October 16, 1945, she was the daughter of the late Julius and Theresa Dawal (Csejka). She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 50 years, George, who passed on December 21, 2015, as well as her sisters Jeanne Wittwer and Victoria Phillips, her sister-in-law Marlene Nagy, and her nephew Charles.

Lois had a deep love for gardening, animals, and her many friends. Her extensive knowledge of plants brought her joy, whether she was tending her gardens or sharing her expertise with others. She was an accomplished painter and ceramic artist who, with her sister, ran a successful business for many years. She cherished simple pleasures such as playing Rummy-cube with neighborhood friends, laughing often, and engaging in lively conversations about tractors with her nephew. Above all, she was a devoted and patient mother who taught her daughter Jeanne to sew, paint, garden, cook, shoot, and care deeply for all animals.

After retiring in 1997 from her position as an accounts receivable clerk at a hospital, Lois and George moved to the family property in Damascus. In retirement she expanded her gardens, raised llamas, dug fishponds, and built coops for her chickens, creating a lively and beloved home filled with the things she cherished.

She is survived by her daughter Jeanne and son-in-law Tom, her sister-in-law Helen and brother-in-law Wayne, her cousin Lydia, and many nieces and nephews: Stephen, Barbara, Christine, Tom, Don, Rob, John, Kris, and their families. Lois will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and generous spirit. A private family ceremony will be held at a future date, in accordance with her wishes.