Bridget A Gerber

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Bridget (Ruzicka) Gerber, who left this world to be with the Lord and loved ones who went before her. She passed on Christmas Day - a day of profound significance and testament to her faith in Jesus Christ.

Bridget was born on June 6, 1940, in Polk, Nebraska, to Jerold and Alice (Makovicka) Ruzicka. She was the second of ten children and grew up on the family farm, surrounded by the values of love, hard work, and togetherness. Tragically, her brother Lawrence, the sixth Ruzicka child, passed shortly after birth, leaving an indelible mark on Bridget's compassionate heart.

She attended a one-room schoolhouse alongside many of her siblings before graduating from Polk High School, where she excelled academically, thrived socially, and proudly served as a cheerleader. Bridget pursued higher education at Kearney College, where she studied business, played volleyball, and continued her love of cheering. Standing at 5'10", she became a favorite on both the volleyball court and cheer squads. Her formative years in Polk, Grand Island, and Lincoln became the foundation of countless adventurous and cherished memories.

In 1959, she married Robert Lee Gerber, and together they raised six children: Bill, Brenda, Brad, Barry, Brian, and Bret. Life was bustling and full, especially during the early years when five of the children were age five and under.

In the 1960s, the family relocated to California, joining other Ruzicka relatives. Bridget, with her timeless beauty and charm, was often described as the epitome of a 60s California bombshell alongside her sisters and friends. Whether attending family gatherings or social events, she lit up every room she entered. Bridget’s brothers were equally active, engaging in sports and spirited adventures.

Bridget remained an avid volleyball player for years, balancing her love for the game with the demands of raising her family. She started a successful home interior decorating business through Home Interiors, embarked on family adventures at the Colorado River, and pursued her education, earning her degree from Redlands University in 1995 alongside her daughter Brenda.

Professionally, Bridget excelled in customer service at McDonnell Douglas Aerospace and Toyota/Lexus Motor Sales. She also cultivated a passion for real estate, assembling a portfolio that provided a comfortable life in Orange County, California.

Bridget’s vibrant social life led her to found the Tall Club of Temecula in 2004, where she formed lasting friendships. She also captained a champion shuffleboard team and became a favorite at local country western hangouts, where she danced, sang, and even played matchmaker. A passionate traveler, Bridget explored the world with family and friends, with Costa Rica and Prague holding special places in her heart.

Family was the cornerstone of Bridget’s life. She welcomed her children’s spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with open arms, ensuring that her annual Colorado River trips remained a cherished family tradition for over 60 years.

In her later years, Bridget lived in the resort senior community of Laguna Woods, California, where she enjoyed the camaraderie of her neighbors and the beauty of her surroundings. This tight-knit group of friends brought her immense happiness.

Bridget’s final resting place will be near her family in Huntington Beach, California, and her spirit will forever reside in the family’s cherished camping spot in Needles, California.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerold and Alice; her brothers, Gilbert and Lawrence; and her sisters, Florence and Irene. Bridget is survived by her children, six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, her brothers Jerome, Edward, Gregory, and Jerry, and her sister Jeanice.

Bridget’s legacy of love, resilience, and joy will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.