Geraldine Mae Horne

Horne, Geraldine M. “Gerry” MADISON-Geraldine M. “Gerry” Horne, age 81, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2014, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on Oct. 9, 1933, the second of four daughters born to Roy and Hilda Clark. She lived on the east side of Madison her entire childhood and attended East High School where she graduated in 1951. In the first few years following high school, Gerry worked for Ray-o-Vac and Paul E. Stark real estate. Later in life she enjoyed a part-time job with a local woman’s clothing store in Madison. Gerry met her handsome husband, Air Force fighter pilot, Stanley, in 1955 and they were married in April of 1957. They began their married life stationed in Newfoundland. Over the next 11 years they made their home in various Air Force base locations throughout the United States. In 1968 they moved back to Gerry’s home town of Madison with their four children; Jeff, Susan, Scott and Kevin. In September of 1967 Stan volunteered to serve in Vietnam. Gerry knew Stan would be away for 1 year or 100 missions. Sadly, he was shot down in January of 1968 after 57 missions and would not return. Gerry then began her mission to be a strong, capable single parent and set out to raise her four children. Stan’s status as MIA continued until 1990 when his remains were returned to his family and a service was held honoring his military service to his country. Being a proud military wife, Gerry never gave up hope but persevered through the frustrations and joys that come with raising children and the awesome responsibilities of being a single parent. She was a devoted, loving mother, and made her children her priority. Gerry was very creative in many ways and loved decorating, as her home showed. She enjoyed being outside gardening and for many years enjoyed bowling in various leagues. Gerry loved shopping and always had an eye for a great deal at an estate sale, this was her favorite way to spend time with her children, grandchildren, friends and family. Gerry is survived by four children, Jeff (Deanna) Horne, Susan Ganz, Scott Horne and Kevin (Joan) Horne; grandchildren, Matthew (Stephanie) Horne, Eric (Kaylin) Horne, Alex Horne, Maxwell Horne, Andrew Horne, Carly Ganz, Jennifer Ganz and Elena Ganz; sisters, Joyce (Paul) Beers, Nancy (Jim) Henning and Carol (Dan) Henning; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and a great-nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Col. Stanley H. Horne; son, David Clark Horne; and daughter-in-law, Kristin Horne. Family and friends may visit at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014. The funeral service will be at 4 p.m. on Sunday, with Father John Silva presiding. A reception will follow to continue celebrating Gerry’s life. Private burial will take place at Roselawn Memorial Park at a later date. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association. Her children would like to offer a special thank you to the staff at Heritage Monona and to Agrace HospiceCare. Your caring kindness has not gone unnoticed. Kim S. and Heidi C., thank you for your caring hands and tender hearts. Amy P., you have been such a blessing to Gerry and her family. She loved your attention, your spunk and also her visits with Charlie. You are a kindred spirit as a strong, single parent. Sandy and Thomas, thank you for being the best neighbors and friends Gerry could ask for. To her sisters, thank you for all your support, encouragement, love and care throughout her entire life and, especially, as she faced the end of her life. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420