Onalaska- Geraldine “Geri” Mae Matiak passed away on Thursday, May 19, 2011.

Geri was born on May 6, 1944 to Walter and Carol (Nottastad) Everson in Sparta, WI. On March 23, 1963, she married Joseph William Matiak. She and her husband, Joe owned and operated a newspaper and automotive business. Geri worked her last 12 years at APAC as a Customer Care Specialist until retiring at age 65.

 

She is preceded in death by her father, Walter Everson and daughter, Gina Slade.

 

She is survived by her mother, Carol Everson; husband, Joe; son, Eric; daughter, Kristy Engstler (Greg); daughter, Julie Strzyzewski (Scott); and son, James (Paula); grandchildren, Kyle, Stefan, Tyler, Brock, Ryan, Brittany, Dylan, Lukas, Cora, Taylor, and Morgan.

 

The biggest joy of her life was her grandchildren. She also loved baking and cooking for the family, especially for the holidays.

 

In respect of her wishes she chose to be cremated and there will be no funeral services as Geri wanted a Celebration of Life for family and friends to remember her. The Celebration of Life will be held at the family Boathouse West Side Boat Club #30 on June 11, 2011 from 2:00 – 5:00 PM. Coulee Region Cremation Group at www.couleecremation.com is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial are preferred.