Lorraine Arlene Gerich

Lorraine Arlene Gerich, age 91, passed away on July 31, 2026, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House. A funeral service will be held at Weerts Funeral Home on Friday, August 7, 2026, at 11: 00 a.m., with a visitation prior from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. There will be a committal service to follow at the Rock Island National Cemetery directly following services.

Lorraine was born on February 2, 1935, in Hartford Connecticut, daughter of William and Minnie Luetjen. Her greatest achievements in her career were consulting with upper-level military at the pentagon as a manager of the M109 self-propelled howitzer. She was also identified as a role model for creation of major item management curriculum.

A few of her favorite activities included choir, camping, scouts, bowling, bridge, and quilting. Any Christian hymn in choir brought her joy, as well as playing in the bell choir. Lorraine’s proudest moment in her life was the birth of her children, who she loved dearly. She thoroughly enjoyed being a support system for both her children and grandchildren. She was a loving wife and mother, who always encouraged people to do their best. Accept nothing less, expect nothing more.

She is preceded in death by her spouse, Robert Gerich; her parents; Brother Wilbert Luetjen; and granddaughter Amanda Gerich.

She is survived by her children, Clifford Gerich, Catherine Gravert, Cynthia Van Leeuwen and Christine (John) Krage; Grandchildren Crystal Simmons, Eli Van Leeuwen, Jaime (Jaime) Van Leeuwen, Hannah (Brian) Arreola, Faith Gravert, Kevin Gravert, Annaliese Krage, Evan Krage and Jackson Krage; and great grandchildren Skyler, Mason and Dominic Simmons.