Gerard Joseph Pfundstein of Orlando, Florida died Sunday February 22, 2015. Gerard or Gerry as he was affectionately known was born July 31, 1925 in Broad Channel , N.Y. He was 89 years old. Gerard is survived by his wife Virginia of 65 years. Although they recently moved to Orlando, thirty wonderful years had been spent in Winter Park, Florida which they dearly loved.
Family was one of Gerard's most cherished parts of life! Gerard is survived by seven children and their spouses. He also has twelve grandchildren and most recently became a great grandfather. Gerard is also survived by his brother, two sisters and many nieces and nephews.
After two years of school at Cornell University, Gerard served in the US Navy for over two years during WW 2. After finishing in the Navy, he was married and finished his education at Cal Poly University in California. After five years on the west coast, Gerard and his bride decided to head back east with five years in Illinois and then to settle in Suffern, NY.
Because of Gerard's deep commitment to his faith, he was a devoted volunteer for many years in a variety of capacities including Ministry to the Sick, RCIA and Cursillo. He also was a part of the Greater Generation Senior group. He loved his parish of Saint Margaret Mary in Winter Park, Florida of which he was a parishioner for thirty years.
One of Gerard's deepest passions was to nature, specifically horticulture which he devoted his entire career to. To know Gerard was to see him in the garden, tending to new plantings or taking care of his beautiful garden of plants, fruits, and vegetables. Gerard also volunteered for many years at Leu Gardens in Orlando helping in the greenhouses and also guiding young school children on tours to learn to appreciate the world of plants around them. Gerard was also an avid camper taking his family on many a camping adventure up and down the east coast of the US.
Finally, Gerard will be remembered as a man of love-for God, his family and his country. His family and friends are truly blessed to have shared in his life and will endeavor to live these principles in his honor.