Elizabeth Gehrke

March 16, 1932 - November 21, 2012

Event.observe(window, 'load', googleTranslateElementInit); function googleTranslateElementInit() { new google.translate.TranslateElement( {pageLanguage: 'en', multilanguagePage: true}, 'google_translate_element'); if (navigator.userAgent && navigator.userAgent.match(/Firefox/)) { // This is a terrible terrible hack, Google Translate blows away the sound on Firefox. // Calling reboot seems to bring it back. soundManager.reboot(); } } Elizabeth Patricia O'Callaghan "Lily" Gehrke, age 80, departed this life November 21, 2012 following a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Lily is survived by daughters, Kerry (Dan) and Traci (Chris) and son, Timothy; her sister, Maureen Kramaraiuk. Her grandchildren, Emily, Ryan , and Colin added great joy to their grandmother's life. Ryan was the light of her life, always able to bring the sparkle into her eye no matter the circumstances. Emily, with her gentle spirit soothed her soul and Lily loved her dearly. Colin has her red hair and bright blue eyes. Lily was born in Dublin, Ireland to Denis and Margaret O'Callaghan. She came to the USA at age 23 and married Norbert Gehrke. Widowed at 32, she moved to Dayton, OH where she raised her children. The last 10 years prior to her Alzheimer's diagnosis were spent in Columbia, SC, where she loved to garden and chat with the neighbors. She spent the last 2 1/2 years at Bethany Lutheran Village, where she was a beloved resident and made so many smile with her cheery and helpful disposition, her fun and laughter, and silly antics. Her family wishes to thank the staff at Bethany Lutheran Village and various friends and family for all the love and support given to our Lily and to our family. Lily was an inspiration to many in how she faced her final challenge with dignity and perseverance, always facing each new day with a smile on her face. Please remember her spirit. Burial at David's Cemetery. If desired, contributions may be made in Lily's memory to Alzheimer's Association Miami Valley, 3797 Summit Glen Drive, Suite G100, Dayton, OH 45449.