Sr. Gerarda Edith Cook, OSF

Born:                          Gerarda Edith Cook, January 31, 1937, in Olean, NY

Died:                           July 10, 2023 at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, NY

Daughter of:              Edward and Ida Kuhn Cook, Olean, NY

Sr. Gerarda entered the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany on August 22, 1955; was received into the Congregation on August 15, 1956, and professed her final vows on August 16, 1963. She joyfully lived the Mission and Charism of the Franciscan Sisters for over 68 years.

Gerarda attended St. Mary of the Angels Grammar School and Olean High School, Olean, NY, graduating in 1955.  After entering the Congregation, Gerarda attended St. Elizabeth Teacher’s College, graduating from St. Bonaventure University with a Bachelor of Science in Education.  She received a Master of Science Degree in Education from Cortland State University, majoring in Social Studies and Minoring in Math.

Gerarda’s ministry enabled her to teach in Congregational Schools in Florida, New York, Connecticut and Virginia.  Until the time of her retirement in 2013, Gerarda served as payroll/bookkeeper and local treasurer at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse, Allegany, NY,

Sr. Gerarda is predeceased by her parents, Edward and Ida Kuhn Cook; five sisters: Virginia Drabant, Victoria Washington, Veronica Volz, Theresa Cook, Geraldine Hopkins; an uncle, Rev. Benjamin Kuhn, OFM, a Franciscan Friar.

She is survived by a brother-in-law, Robert Hopkins, in addition to several nieces and nephews; as well as many great nieces and nephews.

A wake service is scheduled for Friday, July 14, 2023 at 4:00pm in the chapel of St. Elizabeth Motherhouse.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 11:00am, proceeded by a viewing at 10:00am in the chapel of St. Elizabeth Motherhouse.  Burial will follow in St. Bonaventure Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc. 646 East State Street, Olean, New York.  For condolences, please visit www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.

Women of Hope Embracing All Creation  ◊  Serving God’s People in the United States, Jamaica, Brazil, Bolivia and Mozambique

Street Address: 115 East Main Street, Allegany, NY 14706-1318 ◊ 716-373-02 00 ◊ Fax 716-372-5774

www.alleganyfranciscans.org