Gerianne "Geri" M. Stawarski

Geri blazed her own trail in life and was an incredible partner, mother, and friend. She had a great sense of humor, was a voracious reader, and loved learning new things. An avid gardener for most of her life, strangers used to stop and note how beautiful her flower beds were - and they could only see the front of the house! Gerianne enjoyed driving fast cars, especially her candy apple red Jaguar XK-E, dark green MGB GT, and dark blue Saab Sonnet.

She savored traveling to sunny destinations and listening to many kinds of music. Geri worked tirelessly in her two careers, retiring first from Xerox after working there for decades and subsequently from BOCES after more than a decade working with children with disabilities. She loved innovation and was always bringing new, fun gadgets and technology home. She believed in being kind above all else, was down-to-earth, and tackled the many hardships she endured with pragmatism and grace. Her positive attitude, intelligence, and infectious smile endeared her to many. Over the years, she had many devoted dogs and cats whom she loved dearly.

Originally wanting to be an art teacher, Geri went to school for advertising and design. Her passions for art, children, and teaching culminated in almost 30 years of service as a Sunday and Summer Bible School teacher at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. She was a Buffalo Bills fan since their inception and an excellent armchair quarterback. Her daughter hopes her only regret in life is not purchasing that IBM stock in the ‘90s. Her family and friends love her and will miss her forever.

She is survived by her partner of 45 years Andrew Strano, beloved daughter Andria Strano, daughter-in-law CJ Peterson, Margaret Strano, and many other friends and family. She joins her family members at rest; her late mother, father, and sister, Shirley Sigelski (Gawrys).

The family will receive relatives and friends from 11a.m-12p.m. on Sat. December 17th, at the Funeral Home of Alvah Halloran & Son, 2125 Chili Ave. Rochester, NY 14624, where a memorial service will be held immediately following at 12:00p.m. Geri will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Please share fond memories of Gerianne and expressions of sympathy for her family at www.AlvahHalloranAndSon.com.