Albena "Bea" Gerlach

 Albena “Bea” Gerlach, age 92, formerly of Forest Lake, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Albena, known as "Bea" to all who knew and loved her, was born on July 3, 1932, in Opole, Minnesota, to Thomas and Katherine (Oldakowski) Opatz. She was raised on the family farm in Opole, Minnesota, where she developed a strong work ethic. Bea had a spirited sense of adventure, she left the farm to move to Saint Paul, Minnesota looking for new opportunities. While working in Saint Paul and before she had her driver’s license, she saved up her money to purchase a brand-new Chevy. She worked at various companies, always seeking new challenges and better prospects.

In 1965, Bea met the love of her life, Joseph Gerlach Sr. They were united in marriage on April 16, 1966 and raised their family in Saint Paul before relocating to their beloved cabin on Forest Lake in 1976, where they made their home year-round. Bea and Joe were devoted to their property, and Bea took great pride in tending to her garden, painting their home, and helping neighbors maintain their yards. A sunny 90-degree day was her perfect day to be outdoors.

In addition to her love for gardening, Bea enjoyed crocheting and embroidery, and many friends and family members cherish the gifts of her beautifully made kitchen towels and blankets. She was a quiet, gentle soul, and once you became her friend, you were a friend for life. Bea's kindness and loyalty were felt by all who knew her.

Bea is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Katherine Opatz; her husband, Joseph Sr.; and siblings Alois Opatz, Peter Opatz, Edwin Opatz, Martha Shuman, and Rose Miller. She is survived by her sons, Joe Jr. (Lisa) Gerlach and Steve (Vicky) Gerlach; her grandchildren, Cortney (Mark Donnelly) May, Faylan (Paul) Brugler, Josh (Bobbi Ann Cartwright) Gerlach, Samantha (Ryan) McDonald, Chris Gerlach, Nick Gerlach, Tony Gerlach, and Danielle Gerlach; her great-grandchildren, Riley May, Keira Donnelly, Ryder Gerlach, Grayson Gerlach, River Brugler, Ruby Brugler, Karson McDonald, and Keenan McDonald; her sister and best friend, Delphine “Del” Gralish; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Bea will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, kindness, and friendship will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 31, 2025 at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake, Minnesota. The family will greet friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake ending with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The family will continue to greet friends one hour prior to mass at the church. Interment at Calvary Cemetery, Forest Lake.