Gerda Pakusch

Rochester - Passed away on June 19, 2024 at the age of 90.

Predeceased by her husband, Siegfried; son, Heinz (Beth); brother, Heinz Ronnau (Marion) son-in-law, Gary Stelmok.

She is survived by her children, Sigrid Stelmok (Gray) & Klaus (Debbie) Pakusch; grandchildren, Heinz, Stephen (Tammy), James, Dustin (Tory), Lisa (Andy), Nicole (Ryan), & Drew (Melissa); sister, Kathe Sassin in Germany; sister-in-law, Brunhilde Kopietz; many beloved great-grandchildren, nieces, & nephews.

Gerda, better known as Omi, was someone who had so much love to give, despite the losses life dealt her. Omi, a variant of the German word for grandmother, wasn't a grandma limited to just her own grandchildren - but to anyone that became extended friends or family.

For those blessed to have Omi in their lives, she leaves a legacy of love, strength, and selflessness behind.

Her journey of leaving Germany to raise a family in America is a testament to her strength. Arriving by boat, with two young children, Omi found her way to upstate NY in the mid 1950s where she was sponsored by a family in the town of Kent. Omi, husband Sigfried, daughter (Sigrid), and son (Klaus) spent a lot of time working on the farm, eventually leading Omi to purchasing and moving into her forever home in Rochester, NY. It's this home where Omi and Sigfried's family become complete, as shortly after, youngest son (Heinz) is born.

Though far away from Germany, Omi's home was always filled German traditions and food, and piled with laughter. In the background German music would be played, the house bomboarded with forts as the pitter-patter of grandchildren ensued with full force. There'd always be coffee and kuchen (cake), usually followed up with hearty dinners of rouladen or goulash served with cabbage. Occasionally Omi would also prepare fruit dumplings, though their reception was a mixed (berry) bag - some people liked them, some not - definitely an acquired taste! However, family cookouts, holidays, and other celebrations wouldn't be complete without Omi's potato salad or deviled eggs. Now, so many of her recipes will live on through her children and grandchildren, as Omi enjoyed sharing such traditions for anyone wanting to learn.

Omi always kept in touch with her German roots. She spent many years traveling to Germany as well as having family from Germany, like nephew (Joerg) and sister-in-law (Marion), coming to stay with her. Omi was proud of her German heritage and always made it a point that the family understood their lineage. Finally, at Omi's, when German music was not playing, you could catch Omi listening to "I Have A Dream" by Amanda Seyfriend. This song, particularly the following lines, allow us to bid a proper earth side farewell to Omi:

"I believe in angels
Something good in everything I see
I believe in angels
When I know the time is right for me
I'll cross the stream
I have a dream"

Omi will be missed dearly, but she leaves behind tons of cherished memories that will forever echo in our hearts. So, for now, it's time for Omi to hang up her Drindl, kick her feet up, and enjoy her next transition -- in which she would tell us all, "don't worry, be happy!" 🌞

A private celebration of Gerda’s life will be held on July 27th in Brockport, New York. Invitations to follow shortly.

Interment at White Haven Memorial Park.

Contributions may be made to: Webster Comfort Care Home, 700 Holt Rd, Webster, Ny 14580

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