Roberta Joan (Brokaw) Gerke | obituaries

Roberta Joan (Brokaw) Gerke passed away August 7, 2022, in Vancouver, Washington.

She was born on October 5, 1934, to Peter Bryant Brokaw and Clara Elizabeth (Lefever) in Goldendale. She was a twin to Barbara Jean, who died shortly after their birth. Roberta weighed just 3.5 pounds at birth. She was later joined by sisters Peggy, Myrtle, and Catherine; and brothers James, George, and Peter.

She graduated from Goldendale High School in 1952 and went on to study at the University of Washington, in Seattle. She met and married Kenneth Gerke in 1963. They had five children: Paul, Robert, Patrick, Marie, and Michael.

She moved back to Goldendale in January 1973 to raise her children around the extended family.

She was preceded in death by her father, mother, two brothers, one sister, and one son.

She is survived by two sisters: Peggy Nielsen, Goldendale; and Myrtle Gustafson, Washtucna; one brother: Peter Brokaw, Goldendale; four children: Paul (Julie), Vancouver; Robert, Portland; Patrick, Vancouver; Marie, Portland; eight grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her favorite activities were walking, reading, crocheting, and playing solitaire. She was active in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Her funeral service will be held August 20 at 10 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Goldendale, with interment to follow.

To plant a tree in memory of Roberta Gerke as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.