Geraldine Mae Heersink

Gerry Mae Heersink, 91, of Modesto, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Friday, June 29, 2018. 

Born and raised in Modesto, a daughter of Charles and Phyllis Viss, Gerry was a woman of faith. She was a charter member of the First Modesto Christian Reformed Church of Modesto.  She also found great joy as the church pianist and organist for 55 years. Her love for her Lord and Savior was evident throughout her life and in how she lived and treated those around her. She had a great gift of hospitality, which she shared with her family, friends, and strangers. She was always genuine in her words and always found interest in others. 

Gerry is survived by her husband of 70 years, Oliver Heersink; her six children, Ron (Wendy) Heersink of Connecticut, Eldon (Mariela) Heersink of Hollister, Sandy (Bob) Kamps of Ripon, and Linda (Garvin) Cheshier, Deb (Steve) Cimoli, and Mark (Lisa) Heersink, all of Modesto; along with 19 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her brothers, Charlie (Gert) Viss, Bill (Charlotte) Viss, her late sister and brother-in-law, Bev (Duane) Dengerink and many other relatives. Gerry loved her family unconditionally and her presence will be deeply missed. 

A visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, July 9, at Deegan- Ripon Memorial Chapel, 111 Palm Ave., Ripon. A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, July 10th at 2pm at Ripon Cemetery, followed by a Memorial Service at 3:30 p.m. at the First Christian Reformed Church, 2620 College Ave., Modesto. Remembrances may be made in Gerry's name to the Modesto Gospel Mission, 1400 Yosemite Blvd., Modesto, CA 95354 or to InterFaith Ministries, 120 Kerr Ave., Modesto, CA 95354.