Geraldine was born on Jan. 8, 1943 in Chicago, Ill. to Walter and Helen (Zapotoczny) Lash.
In 1966, Alfred State College appointed Geraldine Instructor in the Department of General Education of General Studies. She held that position until 1973 when she was promoted to Assistant Professor of English. Geri retired from Alfred State College in September of 2001 after 35 years of teaching.
Geri is survived by a sister-in-law, Patricia Lash of Orland Park, Ill.; two nephews, Walter (Brandi) Lash of Stow, Ohio and Andrew Lash of Orland Park, Ill; and her kind and caring neighbors of 30 years, Kathy Feldman and Sheila Holloway.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Walter Lash and longtime companion, Theodore Burakoff.
Geri was a faithful supporter of the Hornell Area Humane Society and loved dogs. When her health allowed, she had dogs of her own. In later years, she enjoyed the long daily walks with her neighbor’s dogs. She was also an avid gardener in her younger days and took great pride in her home grown vegetables. As an English professor, Geri loved books and had a passion for literature. She enjoyed reading, especially mystery novels. Geri also enjoyed eating out. A favorite pastime of hers was the many lunch dates with Theodore.
Per her wishes, there will be no prior visitation. There will be a graveside service in the spring when her ashes will be laid to rest next to her parents in Resurrection Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleums in Justice, Ill. Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home in Andover.
Memorial contributions in Geri’s name may be made to Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.
