Miriam "Mimi" Gerlach, 68, returned to her heavenly home on June 28 ^th , 2020 after a short battle with cancer. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her and gave her peace. Miriam was born in Presque Isle, Maine on July 20 ^th , 1951 to Francis, a career Air Force Master Sergeant and his German wife, Erika. As an Air Force "brat", she moved often in her youth which gave her a terrific understanding of the world and a love for culture. She learned German before English and also learned Spanish while in living in Spain. She had a love for language that stemmed from her mother who spoke five languages and that translated later in life as a teacher of German.

She and her husband of 43 years had two beautiful daughters, who they raised mostly in Northern Kentucky. Mimi and her husband moved to Florida in 2006. As a teacher and a librarian at Covington Latin School in Kentucky and Horizon Academy in Ocala, she influenced many of today's youth to be the best people they can be. She was a volunteer for many activities within the On Top of the World Communities in Florida including the library, chorus, and Women of The World. She was involved with local church and often volunteered to assist with services. She was an avid reader and was regularly caught reading while trying to cook dinner. She loved the pool and the beach as well as a good shopping trip. She also kept active by playing golf with Chicks with Sticks as well as keeping her mind sharp with games like Rummikub and Scrabble.

She is survived by her husband Garry, daughters Kristina and Karin, and her brother Dana in Indiana. Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, no visitation or Celebration of Life is planned and will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking any donations be sent to Hospice of Marion County, Ocala Florida in Mimi's memory. https://www.hospiceofmarion.com/ways-to-give/