Gerhard J. Rokicki

After surviving World War II as a child, Gerhard, his sister Irmgard and his mother, Ottillia immigrated to Cleveland, Ohio in 1953. After high school, Gerhard attended Loyola University in Chicago, Illinois. He then began his professional career in the printing industry. Becoming known as "Mr. Fix-It", Gerhard turned several struggling printing companies into profit making enterprises. Upon retirement from printing, Gerhard became the community association manager for Northern Hills Country Village Condominiums.

Excelling throughout his life in all his professional and recreational pursuits, he had equivalent expectations of others. He was a lover of fine tequila, expensive hats, BMWs, the opera, and a sparkling clean home. His parties and vacations were legendary, blessing all those with the great fortune to share them. He was an extravagant tipper, an extraordinary dancer, an enthusiastic Catholic, always an animal lover, a fabulously complicated father, an uncompromising, frustrating, fallible, proud, curious, passionate, and unique human being. The world is dimmer without his presence - our memories, nevertheless, still shimmer in the light of Gerhards courageous, joyous heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Irmgard Strechay; and the mother of his children, Helen Miller. Gerhard is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kim Williams Rokicki; children, Monica Rokicki-Guajardo (Ivan), Mary Rokicki, Tomas Rokicki (Sue), Gerhard Rokicki, Kenneth Rokicki (Valerie), Marcella Rokicki Hayden (Jimmi), Erica Bono (Michael), Dirk Rokicki (Pati), Josef Rokicki (Anastasia); numerous grandchildren, and great grandchildren, as well as nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a lifetime of friends.

A private memorial service and a public celebration of life will be scheduled in the future.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities or the animal rescue organization of your choice.