Albena Gerlach Obituary
With profound sadness, we say goodbye to Albena Gerlach of Forest Lake, Minnesota, whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. Albena left this world on January 16, 2025 at the age of 92, leaving a void in the lives of so many people. You can send your sympathy in the guestbook provided and share it with the family. You may also light a candle in honor of Albena Gerlach or send a beautiful flower arrangement to the funeral service.
She was predeceased by: her parents, Thomas Opatz and Katherine Opatz (Oldakowski); her husband Joseph Sr.; and her siblings, Alois Opatz, Peter Opatz, Edwin Opatz, Martha Shuman and Rose Miller.
She is survived by: her sons, Joe Jr. Gerlach (Lisa) and Steve Gerlach (Vicky); her grandchildren, Cortney May (Mark Donnelly), Faylan Brugler (Paul), Josh Gerlach (Bobbi Ann Cartwright), Samantha McDonald (Ryan), Chris Gerlach, Nick Gerlach, Tony Gerlach and Danielle Gerlach; her great grandchildren, Riley May, Keira Donnelly, Ryder Gerlach, Grayson Gerlach, River Brugler, Ruby Brugler, Karson McDonald and Keenan McDonald; and her sister Delphine "Del" Gralish. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 30th 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Friday, January 31st 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A prayer will be held on Thursday, January 30th 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Mattson Funeral Home & Cremation Service (343 N Shore Dr, Forest Lake, MN 55025). A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, January 31st 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Church of Saint Peter (1250 S Shore Dr, Forest Lake, MN 55025). A burial will be held on Friday, January 31st 2025 at 12:15 PM at the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.
