Kathleen Maria Gerlits

Kathleen Maria Gerlits, also known as Kathy, passed away peacefully at home on September 19, 2023, at the age of 92 in Lomita, California. Born on October 8, 1930, in Arvada, Colorado, she was the beloved daughter of John and Kathryn Clark. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Fr. John Clark, S.J.

Kathy will be remembered for her radiant personality and her ability to find the good in everyone. She had a beautiful and genuine smile that made everyone feel special. Caring, kind, gentle, and sweet, she always radiated a sense of peace to all those around her and found the good in everyone. Kathy's love for God was evident in every aspect of her life, and she dedicated herself to making the world a better place through her prayers and helping others.

In her early years, she was a tour guide at San Fernando Mission, Kathy worked at Lockheed in Burbank as a Secretary. After getting married, she made the decision to become a full-time housewife and mother, dedicating herself to her family. She was a loving and devoted wife to her husband, Edward G. Gerlits, and a cherished mother to her children, Tim, Colleen, son-in-law Rollie, Mary, Ed, daughter-in-law, Thuy, and Ann. Kathy was also a proud grandmother to Connie, Nikki, Heather, Ryan, Michael, Kyle, Gwyn, Matthew, Nicholas, Chelsea, Kelsey, Kayla, Anthony, and a great-grandmother to Natalie, Mackenzie, Aurora, Scarlet, Hunter, Kyle, Ella, James, Kailand, River, and Aiana. She also was an inspiration to her many nieces, nephews, and Godchildren. She was loved by all who knew her.

Kathy's deep faith led her to be an active member of the St. Catherine Laboure in Torrance, CA, St. Patrick Catholic Church in Weaverville, CA, and St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Lomita, CA. She found joy in serving her community and dedicated her life to helping others. Kathy was a Catechism Teacher and volunteered for many Church activities. She was a member of the Legion of Mary, a prayer group leader, and an advocate for all those in need of spiritual guidance.

The funeral services for Kathy will be held at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, located at 25511 Eshelman Ave, Lomita, CA. The Rosary and Mass will take place on Friday, October 13, 2023, at 10:30 am, followed by a reception at 12:00 pm. The burial will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 9:30 am at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, located at 5835 Slauson, Culver City, CA.

The Coastal Funeral Center in Lomita, CA, is assisting the family with the arrangements during this difficult time.

Kathy's memory will forever live on in the hearts of her loved ones and all those whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and faith will continue to inspire others.