Barbara Claire Geriak

Born on July 1, 1941, in Brooklyn, NY, Barbara was raised by her parents Edward and Claire.She attended Catholic schools before continuing her education in college coursework. She was a life-long learner. Barbara's professional life began on Wall Street as a secretary at Price Waterhouse. After dedicating herself to raising her children, she returned to the workforce in Fullerton, finding great fulfillment at Southern California Business Services.

In 1965, on Long Island, NY, Barbara married Thomas Geriak. Together, they embarked on a cross-country adventure to Southern California, where they found their home in Placentia in the early 1970s. For over five decades, the Geriaks invested their lives in the Placentia community. There, they built a life filled with the warmth of a supportive community, forging cherished friendships through their children’s local sports leagues, and countless memories made with beloved neighbors.

The Orange County beaches became a source of awe, beauty, and peace for Barbara. Being an East Coast transplant to California and not needing to drive in New York, Barbara didn’t get her driver's license until moving to California. One important factor in this endeavor was her determination to get her kids to the beach. At first, intimated by Southern California freeways, she would drive to the beach only using side streets. In the 1970s, Barbara preferred taking her young family to Corona Del Mar for its safety, snack shack, and its tame, secluded beauty. Later, she found joy in Balboa Island's walks and the spectacle of surfers at the Wedge. Closer to home, her lush backyard garden thrived under her care, transforming into a playground for her grandchildren—her greatest source of delight. When she was with her grandchildren, it was a joy to witness her laughter, gasps of surprise, and the pride in her eyes.

Thomas preceded her in death, passing away in February of 2021. Her only brother, Edward, passed away only eight days after she did. While their loss is deeply felt, it brings comfort to believe that they are reunited now.

Barbara is survived by her son Mark (Amy), daughter Kathleen (Cesar), daughter Mary Anne (Mark), and grandchildren Claire, Will, Grace, Robert, Abigail, and Isabelle.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 1, 2024, at St. Juliana Falconieri Parish in Fullerton, CA.