Remembering Gerri L.:
TGF Chat Leader, Crossroads Activist

By Jayne Nicole

Gerri and his wife, Diana, were dynamo's of energy when putting on entertainment for Crossroads. They went out of their way to make sure that everything went as planned or better. Some of the things they recently did were a Fashion Show with some local major chain retailers participating. They also organized a session with some nationally known lawyers to answer the issues common to us all . They also produced a talent show that included the introduction of Dapper Dan, aka Diana ------- he did a great lipsynch and dance routine! Many here will remember their work in putting together an outing to the Chrysler Auditorium in Windsor, Ontario, Canada for the play LaCage Aux Folles in which one of our members had a role. That was a very enjoyable evening.

Gerri did outreach for Crossroads, taking charge of the hotline several days each week. We sat together on a T panel at Michigan State University early last October at the Student Union during Pride Week. It was an experience that we really enjoyed.

Gerri will be missed by all - Diana, his family, neighbors, friends, and support group. Things will just never be the same without him there. He was the reason I came to Crossroads. He took a chance on me and gave out his phone number over the net - the first time he ever did that - in a private conversation in the TG Forum Chat Room. I called and my life was forever changed for the better. Because of his trust in me, my wife and I became a members of Crossroads and good friends of Gerri and Diana. I'll sadly miss him.

Gerri and Diana have been the early morning Monday morning hosts for TGF's chat room since 1995. They formed an informal group called "The Breakfast Club." Countless people have been helped by their kind words and advice.

Gerri was buried in a Grateful Dead T-shirt with the blue stripe shirt over it. He was wearing his favorite blue jeans, tennis shoes, and favorite undergarments. All the clothing that he wore were his favorites.

The casket was kept closed except for about 10 minutes of family viewing, at Gerri's request - he had talked about funeral homes in that he didn't want to be on display.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 11. The service was pleasant and upbeat. There was a short graveside service attended by close family members. The wake was held in the church activity building and had about 80 people present for lunch.