Geraldine M. Callard
Geraldine M. “Gerry” Callard, 90, of the Town of Ridgeway, entered into rest peacefully on Dec. 31, 2019, at her home.
Gerry was born in 1929, daughter to the late Edith (Miller) Neeley in Waterport. She lived there for a period of time and moved to Detroit, Mich. with her mom and brother. Occasionally, she would come back to Waterport to live with her grandma during the summer months.
On April 5, 1947, she married the love of her life, the late Raymond E. Callard, and for 72 years they worked to raise a loving family of four children. Together, they raised livestock and operated a vegetable and fruit stand at their home on Ridge Road. She also worked at a greenhouse on Bates Road and was a caretaker of the Bates Road Cemetery. Ray and Gerry owned and operated The Rustic Sign, a silk-screening business out of their home, printing custom jackets, t-shirts, baseball uniforms, ball caps and much more.
She enjoyed reading, and crocheting afghans and throw blankets, which she gave as gifts. She also enjoyed garage sales, shopping for great deals. She was not a materialistic person, and she knew the value of money, a trait she tried to instill in her children. Growing up during the Great Depression and World War II, she learned that you had to be somewhat self-sufficient, but she was always willing to help others whenever she could. This is what gave her strength and purpose.
Gerry is survived by her son, Gary (DeeDee) Callard; daughters, Peggy (John) Foss and Lori (the late Ronald) Ettinger; ten grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Betty Stehler; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her mother, she was predeceased by her beloved husband of 72 years, Raymond Callard; her son, Richard Callard; her granddaughter, Sarah Callard; her brother, Floyd Stehler; and her son-in-law, Ronald Ettinger.
Services will be held at a later date to be announced in the spring. Following the service, burial will take place in Bates Road Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Gerry’s memory may be made to Hospice of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion NY 14411.
Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Please share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.
