Obituary
Miriam “Mimi” Gerlach, 68, returned to her heavenly home on June 28th, 2020 after a short battle with cancer. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her and gave her peace. Miriam was born in Presque Isle, Maine on July 20th, 1951 to Francis, a career Air Force Master Sergeant and his German wife, Erika. As an Air Force “brat”, she moved often in her youth which gave her a terrific understanding of the world and a love for culture. She learned German before English and also learned Spanish while in living in Spain. She had a love for language that stemmed from her mother who spoke five languages and that translated later in life as a teacher of German.
She and her husband of 43 years had two beautiful daughters, who they raised mostly in Northern Kentucky. Mimi and her husband moved to Florida in 2006. As a teacher and a librarian at Covington Latin School in Kentucky and Horizon Academy in Ocala, she influenced many of today’s youth to be the best people they can be. She was a volunteer for many activities within the On Top of the World Communities in Florida including the library, chorus, and Women of The World. She was involved with local church and often volunteered to assist with services. She was an avid reader and was regularly caught reading while trying to cook dinner. She loved the pool and the beach as well as a good shopping trip. She also kept active by playing golf with Chicks with Sticks as well as keeping her mind sharp with games like Rummikub and Scrabble.
She is survived by her husband Garry, daughters Kristina and Karin, and her brother Dana in Indiana. Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, no visitation or Celebration of Life is planned and will be scheduled at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking any donations be sent to Hospice of Marion County, Ocala Florida in Mimi’s memory. https://www.hospiceofmarion.com/ways-to-give/
Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. Miriam was a wonderful friend, great German teacher and librarian, but above all she was a fine Christian woman, who lived a life of service to her Lord and God. She always had a wonderful smile and helping hand for everyone. If it had not been for Miriam, I would never have had the opportunity to teach German at NKU, for companies and at CLS. I will miss my best friend greatly.
With Our Love and Sincerest Sympathy to you all, Linda and Hartmut
Jena Walters
Your family is in my prayers,
Jan Skavdahl
Again I say God Bless!
Ken Rudolph
Stephanie
Yours was a life so beautifully lived and a heart so deeply loved.
You will be greatly missed, but will remain in my heart forever.
Tina
Miriam was such a nice person !!!
Deacon Bob Larcher
Susan Yenne
Love,
Garry, Becky, Mattie & Leo Daniels
My condolences go out to you at this time.
My prayers are also with you during this difficult period.
Miriam will be sorely missed by us who were her Scrabble partners.
Be Blessed!
Edna Williams
OTOW.
Kentucky Derby Day was always so much fun at the Gerlach's. Miriam was a great Hostess and we went home with great memories. So sorry that her time here was cut short . Our thoughts and prayers to all of you.
Rest In Peace my friend.