Elizabeth "Beth" Rose (Gerdes) Mayerich

Elizabeth “Beth” Rose Mayerich, 71, passed peacefully Friday, February 6, 2026 at her Otsego home after a graceful and courageous battle with cancer. 

Beth was born in Deadwood, SD on April 10, 1954 to Virginia and Leonard Gerdes.  Beth grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from Brooklyn Center High School.  She worked as an accountant for Boyer Ford after graduating with an associate degree from Anoka Ramsey Community College. After the birth of her children, Julie and Adam, Beth devoted her time to being a full time mother. Once they were in school, she began working as a cook with the Robbinsdale School District, where she dedicated 18 years of service, touching many lives and building lifelong friendships. 

While still working for the Robbinsdale school district, Beth also volunteered at the Adath Jeshrun synagogue where she was given the opportunity to further her career as Food Service Director. From 2005 until the onset of COVID in 2020 and with her trusted colleague Karen M., Beth proudly and faithfully served the congregants of Adath Jeshrun.  She consistently went the extra mile to ensure every event was meaningful and special, always putting the needs of the congregation first.  Over the years, Beth not only earned deep respect for her dedication and service but also won the hearts of many and formed lasting friendships within the synagogue community. 

In her spare time Beth loved to travel with family and friends.  She enjoyed the off road adventures that car travel could bring, her favorite destinations being the Black Hills, St. Louis, Ely, Colorado, and a ride along the West Coast.  Beth also loved traveling by air where she enjoyed many adventures in Las Vegas, and trips there were routine, with even a destination 60th birthday party in 2014 with friends and family.  Beth also had other air travel adventures to Zurich, and Panama City Beach, Florida to celebrate her 70th birthday.  Beth also loved planning and hosting holidays, family reunions or any occasion that would bring people together.  Beth’s love for her family was abundant and her first priority. 

Beth was a talented seamstress, and it brought her immense joy.  Whether it be altering bridesmaid or wedding dresses, making Halloween costumes for her grandchildren or making special Christmas gifts for family, Beth could be found at her sewing machine.

Beth is survived by her mother Virginia, life partner Bruce, children Julie (Mike) and Adam (Alaina), four loving grandchildren Jacob, Lauren, Tony, and Aurora whom she loved dearly, sisters Cheryl (Brian), Lori (Donny), and brother Randy, as well as many family and friends.

Beth was preceded in death by her father Leonard in 2017. 

Beth will be especially remembered for her generosity and willingness to help others.  She never said no to a favor, whether it was babysitting, sewing, or lending a hand with events.  Giving of herself came naturally to her, and her kindness touched everyone who knew her. 

A Mass at Saint Henry’s Catholic Church, 1001 East 7th St, Monticello, 55362, is scheduled for Friday, February 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.  Visitation 1 hour before the service.  Private interment to follow at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Saint Henry’s Catholic Church “Thanksgiving Fund”, which is dedicated to assisting individuals in the community who express a need for support.

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