Tribute for Rita Ellen Gerzanick (Guest book)
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Welcome to the memorial page for

Rita Ellen Gerzanick

August 3, 1926 ~ April 29, 2017 (age 90) 90 Years Old
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A candle was lit by Former Student of Rita's on September 30, 2020 6:02 PM
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Message from Nathan Shilberg
April 16, 2020 10:23 PM

Pardon me for this late post. April 29, 2017 marks the passing of a legend whose likes will not soon be forgotten. “Chiquita” Rita, as I fondly remember her, took a passionate interest in every one of her students. Constantly rolling a pen between her palms, obsessively propping up her glasses, her trademark fingerprint smudges all over her oval lenses, she exuded a radiance and hunger for learning that was infectious. Seldom did she come to class without failing to impart to her students purely inspirational wisdom daily. She lifted us up for the ages. Always humble, forever devoted instinctively to teaching to the core, little did she realize how much of a lasting and profound influence she had on molding young minds. Greatness, however, did not elude her.
Message from Mary (Acampora) Grinnell
May 21, 2017 10:59 PM

Mary Anne and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your mom's passing. She was one of my favorite teachers in high school. She truly wanted the best for each and every one of her students. I vividly remember her class and her passion and enthusiasm as she worked with us on writing our college essays. She will be in my prayers.
Message from barry lastra for my wife Alison Gallagher Coolbrith
May 15, 2017 1:20 PM

Rita had a positive major impact on, Alison, my wife(deceased) as her teacher in Bristol. I had the opportunity to join the two of them for lunch several times and know they had a mutual respec & fondness for each other. Rita was a wonderful, caring role model who will be missed.
Message from Anne Bartlett
May 14, 2017 4:41 PM

MaryAnn
It was great knowing your mother. She was such a classy lady and honored
me with being a loyal customer for the past 35 years. She will be missed.
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A candle was lit by Anne and Alan Bartlett on May 14, 2017 4:38 PM
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A candle was lit by The Dube family of Forestville on May 5, 2017 5:29 PM
Message from Mary-Alice Petrucelli-Timek
May 3, 2017 11:54 PM

I had the honor of knowing Mrs. Gerzanick for many years. As a member of the School Readiness Council she was always leading by example- her love of learning and reading were evident - and she inspired those around her.
Rest in peace
Message from Karen Mellon Oddi
May 3, 2017 4:10 PM

I remember Rita as Miss Large when I was a member of the Class of 1957-Bristol HS.
She truly was an inspiring woman and teacher of English who encouraged me to pursue an English major in college and enjoy several years of teaching at the junior high level. We also share the same wedding anniversary day and date--June 30, 1962.
May she rest in peace....
Message from Tracy Norkun
May 2, 2017 9:37 PM

I am truly sorry to hear of Mrs. Gerzanick's passing. I remember her fondly...
Message from Magdalene Rose Scheessele
May 2, 2017 7:39 PM

Mrs Gerzanick was one three Bristol Central High School teachers who was always an inspiration my career. She will always provoke wonderful memories of my senior English class in World Literature. She was the best and always taught her students. God bless her! I had met her daughter MaryAnn when i taught in Bristol. My deepest sympathy to her family to have known this wonderful lady, teacher, mother, wife and professional. I had her in 1970/1971 and she inspired me to always soar for the best!
Message from WHEELER CLINIC
May 2, 2017 5:01 PM

We remember Rita as a champion of education, early childhood, literacy and much more. Our condolences to her family.
Susan Walkama President and CEO Wheeler Clinic
Message from Lucy Bourgoin Harris
May 2, 2017 2:41 PM

Mrs. Gerzanick was a teacher that left a lasting impression on me. She was so excited about vocabulary and reading that you couldn't help but share her excitement. What a legacy to be remembered so vividly even after 35 years. Sincere condolences to her family.
Message from The Barloks
May 2, 2017 12:03 PM

Rita, We will never forget you and your devotion to UCONN Women's Basketball and the fun times that we shared.
You will be in our hearts and prayers forever,
Rick and Valerie Barlok
Message from Ed. Dickau
May 2, 2017 11:13 AM

Rita will be sorely missed. She was the most important teacher in my life and I have preserved the negatives of the photos taken of her wedding. Her memory will also be preserved.
Message from Mark Tyszka
May 2, 2017 10:23 AM

Mrs. Gerzanick was the best English teacher I ever had. In my senior year of high school, she taught me how to (finally!) write. Wonderful woman and a wonderful teacher. May she rest in God's peace.
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