In Remembrance

Geraldine “Gerrie” Ann Aro’s sunrise was November 30, 1929. Her Sunset on October 23, 2024. Both took place in Duluth, MN. All people die but not all people live. Gerrie lived! She loved life and never met a stranger. Her vivacious personality drew people to her. After spending 10 years and 3 months at Viewcrest Health Center, she created her 2nd family with both the residents and staff. She loved them and they loved her.
Gerrie was a 1947 graduate of Denfeld High School, where she was a cheerleader. On December 17, 1949 she married Ervin “Erv” Aro. She was secretary for her husband’s business, “Aro Plumbing and Heating.” In the past, she attended Salem Lutheran Church, where she was confirmed, and Christ Lutheran Church.
She enjoyed the simple joys of life … pink carnations with baby breath, azalea plants, decorating and cooking for holidays, parades, bingo, music, dancing, the view of Lake Superior from her home, Enger Park and all the natural beautiful settings Duluth had to offer. Both she and her husband were excellent cooks and warmly welcomed all:into their home. You never left hungry or thirsty and-kids never left without a sugar high from candy, pop or ice cream (usually all three).
In later years, Gerrie looked forward to visits to “Sears” (Fond-du-Luth Casino). Music was always part of her daily fife, from the Big Band era, the S0’s, Classic Country and Gospel. Her 1a$t hours were spent being serenaded by the big band sounds of the Glenn Miller Band.
More than anything in life, she treasured every minute she was able to spend with her precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were her whole world. She loved her family and friends with all her heart. Since a little girl, she had a warm heart for puppies and dogs … both her own and strays.
Gerrie endured many triumphs and tribulations in life with great strength, courage and dignity right up to the end. As one cousin often said, “she was one tough old broad.” And she was!

Preceded in death by her parents; Otto and Aphrodite “Bobbi” (Maroosis) Anderson; husband, Ervin “Erv” Aro; sister, Corrine “Connie” Prouse; her casino buddy, Lu Zimbeck; her best friend since 7th grade, Jeanne Hansen and many other cherished family members and friends.
Survived by her Daughter; Claudia {John) Baney of Duluth; Son, Doug
(Renee) Aro of Tigard, Oregon.
Grandchildren; Jason Baney of Corpus Christi, TX; Jeremy Baney of Duluth; Christina (Tad} Martin of Sherwood, OR and Nicole McDonald of Tigard, OR.
Great-Grandchildren; Alec and Dax Baney; Zachary and Elliana Martin, Jordyn McDonald, plus dear cousins, nieces & nephews and great-nieces & nephews, friends and her special neighbors from Harvey St.; The Leonards, The Abbott’s & The Anderson’s.
The family would like to thank the loving staff (both past and present) at Viewcrest Health Center, the amazing Essentia Health Hospice Team and her wonderful neighbors who showed kindness and compassion through the years to our beloved mother and grandmother. Thank you, also, to all who brightened her life with a visit, phone call, sent her a card, brought her a gift, said hello or gave her a friendly smile. We are forever grateful.
Gerrie was honored at a graveside celebration by her immediate family at Oneota Cemetery.
Please consider memorials to *Disabled American Vets (DAV) or a Veteran organization of your choice, *Second Harvest-Northern Lakes Food Bank or give flowers to a loved one or friend, “just because” while they are still here on earth.

* Gerrie would want you to share a “Lake Superior Highball” or beverage of your choice in remembrance of her.
Arrangements by Affordable Cremation and Burial (218) 491-7011