Obituary of Geraldine Margaret Stracener

Geri was a young 18-year-old California “hippy chick” when she met Billy, a young soldier from Arkansas stationed far from home.  It was a cultural shock for both of them, but they married on June 14, 1968.  She loved the Rolling Stones and he loved hot cars. Once his duty was finished, he moved his young bride back to Arkansas and she was truly “not impressed”!  But she rapidly settled and was amazed by the hospitably and accents. She came to love cows of all things and from then forward her home was decorated with them.  Her personality and energetic laugh quickly won her many friends and Geri and Billy started a life together.  Theirs was a traveling life and she was excited to be by his side on many adventures and wherever his work would take him. They got to see the world together and grew up along the way. The love between her and her mother-in-law, Sue Stracener, was very special and helped a young scared bride cope with a whole new world.  Geri became a very loved and appreciated part of the family.  They added two beautiful children to the family, Billii Ann, Bloomington, MN and Matthew Reid, deceased.  There is also a truly energetic as well as beautiful granddaughter, Cierra Marchel Stracener, Bloomington, MN. Geri will be missed and our memories will all be happy ones.  Geraldine “Geri” Margret Stracener (Shopf) born April 2, 1950 to John and Pat Shopf. She Passed away peacefully and happy March 5, 2025. Arrangements pending.