Cynthia Louise Gerdes

Cynthia Louise Gerdes, loving known to most as Cindy, was born in Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara, CA. She was the loving daughter of Patricia Margaret Peck and Samuel John Rusetos. Cindy was raised in Hollywood, CA. Though she was frequently the one to initiate games and activities, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. A natural peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of conflicts, Cindy worked conscientiously to keep family spats at bay. Cindy was raised with multiple siblings. Closest to her in youth was her brother Ron Pittman. Despite their sibling rivalry while growing up, Cindy and Ron cared deeply for one another as they did for their entire family.

For Cynthia, the school routines were never a problem although she generally preferred variety to structure. She seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And she was able to do it quickly and efficiently. Cynthia was also adept at details. Cynthia was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.

Cynthia was a faithful and loving person. Cynthia was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Cynthia was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Cynthia was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Cindy was always enthusiastic.

Some had the firsthand experience of knowing Cindy’s sentimental side. She was a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Cynthia cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Compassionate and devoted, Cynthia worked hard to make her life partner happy. Cindy married her lifelong sweetheart on December 26, 1985. They shared 32 years of life and everything that came with that. Cindy loved Gale and Gale loved Cindy. Those close to the pair admired their commitment to each other and true friendship.

Harmony was important to Cynthia and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Cynthia was blessed with a son, Travis. Cindy and Travis had many shared interests and pastimes. They were Mother and son but also friends. They had an obvious and unbreakable bond. Everyone that knew Cindy, knew that she had two loves of her life, her husband and her son.

Taking her work seriously came naturally to Cynthia, and she expected the same from those around her. Cynthia was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Cynthia was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits, were situations that Cynthia handled with ease. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” Her primary occupation was Purchasing Agent. She was employed for 17 years by Garden Communities. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues. Cynthia was a library of information for Garden Communities and always effectively completed assignments. Cindy had an exacting nature and an energetic spirit.

A methodical woman, Cynthia enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite memories were camping and going to the beach with friends and family.

Cynthia was one of those people who took pride in constantly putting forth her best effort. Nowhere was that more visible than in sports. In high school, Cynthia played softball. Cindy had a passion for sports and that was fitting because she loved comradery and she loved a challenge.

Her high character and traditional values served Cynthia kept Cindy steady in her faith and Religion, which were of great importance to her. Cindy attended The Rock Church. She was well respected member and well liked for her outgoing nature. Cindy sought to help in any manner she could and touched many in this circle.

Not only did Cynthia enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those many trips and vacations. She was an organized facilitator wand could easily draft a flawless agenda consisting of all things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included five trips to Maui, Hawaii and several trips to Hearst Castle.

Cynthia was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. Two of her beloved companions were her cats, Baby and Jr.

Cynthia passed away on September 13, 2017, at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, CA. by Cardiac arrest. She is survived by her husband Gale, her son Travis, her mother Patricia and her brothers and sisters. Services were held at The Rock Church in Point Loma, CA. Cynthia's ashes will be spread along the beach and into the ocean.

Cindy, was strong and tender all at once. She was dynamic but yet so simple, a complex mix of character and humor. Cindy defined sociable and all while making certain the details were not missed. She cared for those around her and protected them fiercely. Cynthia knew when to pull back but she never cowered and always ‘gave it to you straight’. Cynthia was down to earth person. She will be remembered for her caring heart and warm disposition. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Cynthia Louise Gerdes and how she embraced life.