Betty Jean Gerken, 97, of Defiance, peacefully passed away surrounded by her loved ones on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. She was born on April 3, 1927 to Lawrence and Edna (Diemer) Adams in Toledo, Ohio. On May 3, 1947 she married Herman A. Gerken, who preceded her in death on April 3, 2018. Betty was a faithful member of St. Stephen Lutheran Church, and the Ayersville Fire-ettes. She was a collector, especially dolls, and enjoyed gardening, playing her record players, and going to garage sales and thrift stores. Betty was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who loved spending time with her family. Betty is survived by her children, Gail Stork of Paulding, David (Kathy) Gerken, Daniel (Deb) Gerken, and Douglas (Leann) Gerken, all of Defiance. She also leaves behind 9 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Betty will be greatly missed by her family and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Gerken, brothers Dale and Jack Adams, and son-in-law, Paul Stork. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home, with Rev. William Stottlemyer officiating. Betty will be laid to rest at Riverview Memory Gardens. Memorials are suggested to St. Stephen Lutheran Church, or to the family, c/o Gail Stork.

St. Stephen Lutheran Church Defiance
30304 New Bavaria Road, Defince OH 43512
Tel: 1-419-395-1507
Email: ststephenlutheran43512@gmail.com