Stanley Robert Gerla

GERLA—Stanley Robert. Died peacefully on July 9, 2025, 99 years young, with his family at his side.

Stanley was born on October 11, 1925 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of Rose and Bernard Gerla, and brother to Marvin. He attended Erasmus Hall High School and, at 19, enlisted in the US Army during World War II. He was assigned to the 47th Tank Battalion in the 14th Armored Division, and was stationed in France and Germany. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star for bravery and, later, the French Legion of Honor.

After serving in the Army, Stanley attended Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, where he completed a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. Thereafter, he joined the family real estate business, eventually venturing out with his brother to found Cameo Builders, which developed private homes, apartment buildings, office space and shopping centers throughout the state of New York.

Stanley married Joyce Lenore Feiman in 1953. Soon thereafter, they built a beautiful home in Great Neck, NY, where they raised three children, Steven, Bonnie and Pamela. Joyce and Stan shared a love for bridge, tennis, music, and travel. After Joyce’s death in 2002 from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Stanley, since retired, relocated to Boca Raton, FL, not least to be close to his brother and sister-in-law, Marvin and Cecily. In addition to continuing his passion for tennis and bridge, Stanley became active in the Boca West Country Club community. He loved the lifestyle at Boca West, particularly the support and social opportunities offered by the club’s events, recreational activities and tight-knit group of friends.

Stanley is predeceased by Joyce, his wife of over 48 years and is survived by his son Steven, daughters Bonnie and Pamela, son-in-laws Bernard Blackman and René Winkler and grandchildren Gabrielle, Gregory, Michelle, Joshua and Jesse. After Joyce’s death, he was fortunate to have found love again, with Philis Weiss who passed in 2013 and, thereafter, with Jackie Levine.

Stanley led a full life. He was an avid bridge and tennis player (playing well into his 90s), and patron of the arts. He adapted well to the tech age and, like most teens, was often found scrolling on his phone, playing bridge online and checking the daily stock prices. We remember him for his passion for life and dedication to his friends and family. He was quick-witted and strong-willed with a playful charm that never failed to bring a smile to those around him. He will be sorely missed.

A graveside services will be held for the family at 11:30 AM on Monday, July 14, Cedar Park & Beth-El Cemetery, 734 Forest Ave, Paramus, NJ 07652.

Those attending should meet 11 am outside to the right of Cemetery's Office and park in the lane behind the Hearse with the name "Gutterman and Musicant" displayed in the rear side windows.

The cemetery foreman will escort us to the grave at 11:30 AM for the service.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Lymphoma Research Foundation of America (https://lymphoma.org) or the National MS Society (https://www.nationalmssociety.org).