Louise E. Gerckens

Louise E. Gerckens (Graupp), age 84, of Hilliard, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2017 at her residence at Sunrise on the Scioto. Louise was born on September 25, 1933 in Passaic, New Jersey to Ann and Joseph Graupp. A graduate of East Rutherford High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Montclair State Teachers College. While her children were young, Louise served the community as an active member of the League of Women Voters, with a special interest in constitutional law. She was very involved with the Hilliard City Schools Music Boosters and edited the monthly “Tooter” newsletter for many years. When the children were older, Louise taught in the Hilliard City School District as a learning disabilities tutor and as a supplemental services teacher for 20 years. Louise provided unique support and services to students with a variety of disabilities, encouraging and enabling many of her students to complete high school and college at a time when such achievements were not common for students with disabilities. Later in life, Louise served as secretary of the Clintonville Woman’s Club. Louise is survived by her husband of 62 years, Larry Gerckens; sisters Lorraine Caravaglia of Wayne Township, New Jersey and Joan Waterman of Pickerington, Ohio; children Krista (John) Hickman, Ann Gerckens, Jeff (Jennifer) Gerckens, Kim Gerckens, TJ (Stephanie) Gerckens, and Jon (Jennifer) Gerckens; grandchildren Chris and Catherine Hickman, Max and Ross Gerckens, Allie and Katie Gerckens, and Caden Gerckens; special niece and daughter of the heart, Bev Cory; and many nieces, nephews, and life-long friends. Preceded in death by her parents and grandson Ryan. Louise had a great love of music, which she passed on to her children. Her piano was the one item of furniture that she insisted on taking with her when she moved into assisted living. Louise also loved nature, animals, and the outdoors. She spent many happy hours as a child and adult “up the lake” at the cabin her father built. The family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff at Sunrise on the Scioto who provided Louise with a loving extension of family in her last years. As Louise often said, “You do a good job!” We would also like to thank the staff of Capital City Hospice for helping to make her last months comfortable and meaningful. The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. SUNDAY at the TIDD FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 5265 Norwich St., Hilliard, where her Funeral Service will be held at 10 a.m. MONDAY, November 20, 2017. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery, Galloway, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association, Central Ohio Chapter or to the charity of your choice. Condolences can be sent to the family via www.tiddfuneralservice.com,