Obituary

Alida Elizabeth Gerardi

With heavy hearts and loving memories, we celebrate the life of Alida Elizabeth Gerardi, who passed away on May 15, 2026, at the age of 87.

Alida was born on May 7, 1939, in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, to her loving parents, Otto and Henirka Wilke. At the young age of 18, she immigrated to the United States and later became a proud U.S. citizen. She deeply loved this country and was extremely patriotic. Her love for America was reflected in everything around her, especially her fondness for the colors red, white, and blue, which filled her home and heart.

Alida is survived by her loving daughter, Swenja Arlauskas and son in law Andrew Arlauskas; her cherished grandchildren, Andrew and Thomas Liguori, and Alexander and Nicklaus Arlauskas; and many family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Otto and Henirka Wilke; her husband, Frank Gerardi; her late husband, Wanley Johnson; and her brother, Paul Wilke.

Alida worked for the City of Clifton as a crossing guard for more than 30 years. She truly loved her job and enjoyed the daily interactions she had with the people of Clifton. She took great pride in helping keep others safe and was always happy to serve her community. Alida was known for her kind and caring heart. She would do anything for anyone and never met a stranger.

Above all else, Alida loved spending time with her grandchildren. She treasured every visit, every phone call, and every moment shared with them. Her family was the center of her world.

A memorial service will be held on June 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Byram Bay Christian Church - 218 Maxim Dr Hopatcong NJ 07843. Family and friends are welcome to join in celebrating Alida’s life. In her honor, guests are encouraged to wear something red, white, or blue.

She will be deeply loved, forever remembered, and greatly missed by all who knew her.