Anne Catherine Gerst
Anne was born on April 15, 1954. She was the only daughter of Joseph F. and Adelaide M. (Guariglia) Gerst and was adopted by them when she was an infant.
She grew up in Bridgeton and lived in University City at the time of her death. She attended St. Lawrence the Martyr Grade School, class of 1968, and St. Thomas Aquinas High School, class of 1972. Advanced education included studies at Fontbonne College (’76, Bachelor of Music) and Webster University (’90, Master of Music).
Anne was a musician who played many instruments, but she was especially gifted at the piano. She taught piano lessons throughout her life, starting with her first students when she was in eighth grade. Additionally, Anne had quite a career, directing choirs, and staging and accompanying musical productions.
Anne worked as Director of Music for St. Lawrence Church in the 1980’s. She had a heart for kids with special needs & worked as a para-educator at the Special School District for 20 years in the Ritenour School District. She was patient, kind, & generous to those with special needs. She also worked at the Variety Club, directing a children’s choir. She loved opera & worked and volunteered at the Opera Theater of St. Louis. She volunteered at Kirkwood Performing Arts Center as well.
Anne was on the music team at the First Congregational Church of Webster Groves where she played piano, sang in The Chancel Choir and worked closely with our Kids Church music program, especially at Christmastime.
She loved caring for plants, and had a way with them, which she learned from her mother. Anne was widely known as a generous and thoughtful neighbor and a cherished friend. We are thankful for the vibrancy Anne brought to our community through her music and her warmth, and we grieve her passing even as we celebrate her spirit.
Anne is survived by her six cousins Jeanne Rolwing (nee Guariglia), Wayne Guariglia, Scot Guariglia, Dan Guariglia, Sheri Watkins (nee Guariglia), and Dale Guariglia.
Services: A funeral Mass will be held for Anne on Friday, July 17 at St. Gerard Majella Church, 1969 Dougherty Ferry Road in Kirkwood at 10:30 a.m.
Also, a celebration of Anne’s life will take place on Saturday, August 8 at the First Congregational Church of Webster Groves at 1:00 p.m.
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