Geraldine McFarland-Erwin

Geraldine Ann McFarland-Erwin, also known as Gerri, went home to the Lord, peacefully, but unexpectedly, on January 11, 2024 at the young age of 68. She was born on April 20, 1955, in Grand Rapids, MI. She will be dearly missed and remembered for her loving and caring heart, and her straight-forward attitude. She brought much joy to those who knew and loved her. She lived a hard life, but never took any moments for granted, and always gave thanks and praise to her Lord and Savior. Geraldine was not only a wonderful mother, but also the best grandmother anyone could have ever wanted.

Geraldine was very strong and put all her faith in God. She survived brain surgery not once, but twice, in the 90's due to a brain tumor. Throughout the years her health slowly began to decline, but nonetheless she put her family first, and always made sure they were happy and taken care of. She experienced many heartaches in her lifetime, including losing two husbands unexpectedly. Her first husband was Philip Erwin, and they were together for many years before he unexpectedly passed away in 1998. Geraldine found love again four years later, when she ran into an old friend, John Wright, whom she had known since her elementary years at Stocking Elementary. They fell in love, and were married for four happy years, before John also passed away in 2006.

Gerri is survived by her children, Christopher Scanlon (Amber Waldon Scanlon), Philip Erwin Jr, Emily Erwin-Perez (Rafael Perez); her brother, Roy Van Thorn; her sister-in-law, Catherine Erwin; and her grandchildren, Thomas Scanlon, Gavin Scanlon, Ashlyn Scanlon, Madelyn Scanlon, Mario Perez, Hannah Scanlon, Josiah Perez, Romeo Perez, and Mariely Perez.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen Feikema (Malinowski) and James McFarland, as well as her siblings, Beverly Salazar, James McFarland Jr, and Cynthia (Cindy) Idziak. Gerri was also preceded in death by her husbands, Philip Erwin and John Wright.

Geraldine was not only welcomed into Heaven by her loved ones, but also her beloved dog, Angie, who was her close companion for all 17 years of Angie’s life. We know Geraldine is overjoyed to be reunited with her long time best friends, Cindy Kuzawa and Helen Godlewski-Chase, as she never got over the heartbreak of losing them and thought of them often.

Gerri attended St. Adalbert's and Stocking Elementary for her primary education, and later graduated from Union High School. She continued her education at Baker College.

Throughout her life, Gerri held various jobs, including working as a security guard, working at an in-home daycare, and being a dedicated homemaker. In her free time, she enjoyed making dream catchers, reading, baking and cooking delicious Polish dishes, and spending time with her grandkids.

A mother's love for her children is magical and one of a kind, but nothing can compare to the love a grandmother has for her grandchildren. They brought her more joy than anything, and those memories will forever be held in their hearts.

Geraldine Ann McFarland-Erwin will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her. May her memory be a blessing. May her loved ones find peace in knowing that she was welcomed into Heaven with her loved ones waiting, and she is now in the arms of the Lord.

'We love and miss you so much. Time nor death can stop our love'-Emily.

Cremation has taken place, and a "Celebration of Life" will be held at a later time. Updates regarding the service will be posted, please check the guest book for updates.