Geraldine Ann Lein

Geraldine Ann Lein was born in Lockport New York to Alfred and Mary Harris on December 3rd, 1933. She left us after a tough 10 year battle with Alzheimer's on May 23rd, 2017.

Geri was best known for her eternally sunny disposition, genuine kindness, high energy, and welcoming presence. Everyone she met felt immediately at ease, and invariably became her friend. She had the extraordinary ability to make everyone feel like they were the most interesting person in the world. She was also fiercely loyal and exceedingly generous to her family and close friends.​​

Geri was a 'foodie', and famous among family and friends for her cooking, baking, and canning skills. She loved trying new recipes, and would constantly tweak and improve to make them her own. She also enjoyed camping, hiking, and motorcycle riding with her family.

Geri grew up in Western New York, the sixth of seven children in the Harris Family. The family struggled mightily during those early depression years, and she didn't really talk much about it other than to say 'times were tough'. Geri started working as early as 14, and would be recognized throughout her life as a dedicated, loyal worker with extraordinary organization and personal skills.

Geri met her future husband Bert while working at the local Ice Cream parlor in Lockport. She had many suitors, but through a combination of charm, wit, and brute force (he beat up a few of her boyfriends), Bert eventually won her over. Bert and Geri married in 1951, with her at the ripe old age of 17!

Soon afterwards Geri and Bert started a family and eventually moved out west to Torrance, California. Geri found a job at the aerospace firm TRW as a secretary, and quickly worked her way up the corporate ladder. Eventually she became a Contracts Manager, and one of the highest ranking female employees at the company. She also attended night school to obtain her Bachelors degree, all while still being a 'super mom' at home.

After many years of hard work and the kids grown and settled into their own lives, Geri and Bert retired. They enjoyed traveling throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico in their motorhome, and soon afterwards became full time RV'ers and camp hosts in Big Pine for a number of years. Geri and Bert would also make frequent visits down to Southern California to spend time with family, and especially enjoyed cheering on the grandkids during their many sporting events. Geri loved to entertain and eventually missed her 'big kitchen', so they gave up the RV and moved to nearby Bishop. Geri and Bert both loved the town and became active in the community. Geri spent ​countless hours volunteering at the local Alzheimer's center as well as the Lutheran Church. She also ​found time to enter her highly sought after canned goodies at the local fair and ​won numerous ribbons​.​

Geri and Bert spent their most recent years living at Leisure World in Seal Beach to be near family, and discovered that they really enjoyed the small town atmosphere and sense of community that it provided.

Geri is survived by her son Mike, daughter-in-law Annie, grandchildren Jeff, Chantelle, Derek, Christopher, and great-grandchild Gage. She was predeceased by her husband Bert and daughter Christa.

Memorial Service on Wed, May 31st 2017 @ 2:00pm, Reception immediately following:

Redeemer Lutheran Church (Leisure World)
13564 St Andrews Dr
Seal Beach, CA 90740