Obituary of Geraldine Mayer

Geraldine (Gerry) Marie Mayer passed away peacefully in her home of 55 years surrounded by her family. Gerry will be remembered for her brilliant mind, deep integrity, and unquenchable curiosity and enthusiasm for life. She was born August 23, 1924 in Buffalo, New York. She completed a classical education at Mount St. Joseph Academy and business training at Bryant & Stratton College, and subsequently worked as a corporate secretary and bookkeeper. During World War II she married Ernest (Ernie) Mayer, and continued to work until they started their family. In 1959 the family, which by then included all 3 children, moved to Santa Cruz. In the years that followed, Gerry managed the household and volunteered for the Red Cross and later the Gray Bears. Among her many interests were square dancing, sewing, oil painting, experimenting with new recipes, discussing economics and politics, and gardening (roses were a particular passion). From early childhood, Gerry was fascinated with history and accounts of exotic locations and cultures. When her children were grown, she realized her dreams, working for Santa Cruz County as a bookkeeper to fund travels throughout this country and the world. In addition to visiting nearly every state, she toured over 25 countries on 5 continents. Her only regret, she said recently, was that she never made it to Antarctica. She was a member of a painting group and the Silver Dolphins Swim Club, where she met and treasured wonderful friends. Despite the setbacks of recent strokes, Gerry retained an inspiring enthusiasm for life and was eager to resume a myriad of projects. She is predeceased by her parents John T. Fuchs and Mary A. (Hossenlopp) Fuchs, husband Ernie and sister Norma (Fischer), and is survived by her three children Cynthia, Christopher and his wife Helen, Brian and his wife Phuong, her two grandchildren Cory and Kimberly Mayer, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Special thanks to her devoted and capable caregivers Mansie Cawaling and Lydia Reyes, to Laurine Sgambati who brought Holy Communion on Sundays, to our wonderful neighbors of so many years, and to dear family friends. Gerry was a member of Holy Cross Parish. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gerry's memory to the SPCA or other charity of your choice. In accordance with her wishes, no funeral services will be held.