Patricia Ann (Larson) Gerdts

In Memory of Patricia Ann (Larson) Gerdts October 5, 1940 - May 24, 2024 Patricia Ann (Larson) Gerdts, age 83, passed away on the evening of May 24, 2024 in Sarasota, Florida after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Patricia “Pat” was born on October 5, 1940 in a small town in Nebraska to parents Roy and Iva Larson. She graduated from Central City High School in 1958. While there, she was a cheerleader, drum majorette with the marching band, gave baton twirling lessons, and was honored as Queen of Job’s Daughters. She remained in contact with her friends from Central City throughout her entire life. After high school, Patricia attended the Lincoln School of Commerce in Lincoln, Nebraska. Post-graduation, she worked for radio station KFOR before marrying former husband Richard “Dick” Gerdts at First Presbyterian Church in Lincoln. She was an incredible mother who offered support, wisdom, and never-ending love to their children, Melissa and James. Pat had an adventurous spirit and traveled often to places like Europe, Marco Island, and Hawaii. She lived in France, Belgium and England as well as eight different states in the U.S, including Florida, where she lived in The Villages for over 23 years. She enjoyed creating gourmet meals, baking and decorating fancy cakes for special occasions, playing bridge and golf, bowling, and spending time with family and friends. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents Roy and Iva Larson, brother Dick and his wife Suzie, former spouse Richard Gerdts, and their daughter Heather. She married her second husband, Dorian Waterson, in 2009 and they split their time between Florida, England and traveling until Dorian passed away in 2010. Pat was later blessed to have time and companionship with Carl Rosetti, who lived near her in The Villages, until Carl passed away in 2022. Pat is survived by daughter Melissa Miller and her husband Merlin and granddaughters Emily, Gabriella and Sierra; son James Gerdts and his wife LaRee, granddaughter Mia and grandson Jamie; brother Dave Larson, his wife Jan and their family; the family of her late brother Dick Larson and his wife Suzie; and countless friends around the globe who knew her kindness and strength. Full of love, laughter, and resilience, Pat touched the lives of all who knew her. To celebrate her 83 years of life, a service will be held at North Lake Presbyterian Church in Lady Lake, Florida on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. If you are able to attend, please wear something blue as a way to honor Pat. Blue was her favorite color. Patricia will be greatly missed and forever loved. Family and friends from childhood and throughout her life have stated that, “Pat was always able to smile and bring people back to happiness, even when things were tough.” Always remember her infectious laugh and her amazing smile! :-) Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.MFHcares.com. Donations can be made in Pat’s memory to the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (www.lungcancerresearchfoundation.org) or Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation ~ T1D (www.breakthrought1d.org).