Went to be with the Lord in Lake Havasu City, AZ at the age of 96 years. Born in Minneapolis, MN to Gertrude and Clinton Bender, Geri is preceded in death by them and her husband Theodore A., who she married February 28, 1938. Their beloved daughter Barbara Ann Matyja-Baji also precedes her. She worked at the Nebraska Furniture Mart and Hinky Dinky Supermarket before moving to Lake Havasu City, AZ in 2000. Survived by son and daughter-in-law Ted C. and Susie Matyja of Lake Havasu City, AZ; grandchildren Shelly Matyja McFarland (Donny), Shawn Matyja Samson (Scott), Caleb Matyja (Jessica), Sharon Baji, Mark Baji (Mary), Trish Baji Royal (Scott), Cristine Baji May, Laurie Halverson, Michael Jankowski (Wendy), and Nick Jankowski; 20 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; sisters-in-law Shirley Matyja, Marge VonTersch, Kay Madej, Lucille (John) Staroski; numerous nieces and nephews. She loved her family and friends and always encouraged us to laugh a lot. Mom, Gram, Grammie, and Geraldine, you were a strength and a blessing for family and friends. You have left an imprint on our hearts and you will be greatly missed...thank you for the memories. Visitation Sunday, March 8th, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral Service Monday, March 9th, 1:00 p.m. Bethany Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor Ted C. Matyja, officiating. Interment St. John Cemetery.
