Gerda Lembcke Overgaard 89, of Red Bank, NJ passed peacefully December 26th, 2023. She was born to Karen and Jens Lauridsen January 10, 1934 in Randers, Denmark. She spent her childhood living under German occupation in Jutland. An ardent student with a competitive streak, she graduated at the top of her class from the Randers Realskole and the Holstebro Handelsskole.
Gerda emigrated with her husband Ole Overgaard to the United States in 1968 and settled in Rumson for many wonderful years. She was always hospitable and kind and opened her home to many travelers and other souls in need. Their little ranch in Rumson was often referred to as “Hotel Denmark.” Gerda had a love of travel, art, fashion, and cooking. Eager to share her Danish cuisine and customs, friends and family would fill her home on Christmas Eve, eating aebleskiver, drinking juleglog, dancing around the tree, and generating maximum hygge. She was always dressed elegantly with matching jewelry and cheetah print was her favorite neutral. Her small stature belied an enormous strength of character. She met all her life’s challenges with grace and cheerfulness.
Gerda worked as a bookkeeper at the ARC of Monmouth for 39 years. She especially enjoyed volunteering at the Winter Glow Ball, golf outings, and holiday celebrations.
She was pre-deceased by her husband, Ole Overgaard. Gerda is survived by her brothers, Peer and John Lauridsen of Denmark, her loving children, and their partners; Ole Jr. of Denmark, Steffen and Erin Overgaard of Middletown, Charlotte and Simon Cole of Fair Haven, and Henrik Overgaard and Joann Church of Red Bank. Also surviving are her dear grandchildren, of whom she was very proud, Shane and Jenn Overgaard, Devin Overgaard, Kaitlin Overgaard, Alexandra and Juan Pablo Negrete, Olivia Cole, and Vivian Overgaard. She was blessed with two great-grandchildren: Logan Overgaard and Juan Diego Negrete. She will also be missed by her beloved caregiver, Maritza Rosado. Vi elsker dig Mor!
A Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 30th from 4 to 7 pm, with a service at 6:30 pm at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701.
