Geraldine (Hammer) Koelln, age 87 of Hudson, passed away February 25, 2012 after a long battle with Alzheimers’ and skin cancer.   Gerry was born on June 10, 1924 in Weston, WV to Howard and Zelma (Allman) Hammer.  She grew up on a farm in Weston, WV, attended college at Northwestern in Chicago and lived in Washington, DC before moving to St. Paul, MN.  Gerry married Roger Koelln in 1959 and moved to Hudson.  Gerry worked as a court reporter for over forty years. 

After retirement, Gerry enjoyed visiting with family, travelling and tours with the North Star Cadillac Club.  She took a special pride in flower and vegetable gardening.  She loved the beauty of the St. Croix River and enjoyed boating.  Gerry had a loving and open heart with a special caring for stray animals.  She was an active member at the United Methodist Church of Hudson. 

Gerry is survived by her husband, Roger; her children, Beth (Chris) Ziebarth, Carol (Dale) Lewis and Connie (Tom) Beston; three grandchildren, Brendan Ziebarth, Caroline Beston and Rachel Beston.  She is preceded in death by her parents.

A Gathering of Family and Friends to celebrate the life of Geraldine Koelln will be held from 5:00-7:00PM, with a 7:00 PM Prayer Service officiated by Pastor Runwal Freese, Friday, March 2 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th Street in Hudson, WI. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.  Services are entrusted to the O’Connell Family Funeral Home of Hudson, WI. 715-386-3725