Gerd Eva Fagerholm, 80, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2021 at Danbury Hospital in Danbury, CT. Gerd was born on May 26, 1941 in Bergen, Norway to the late Hans Elde and Malmfrid Lotvedt Elde. Beloved wife of the late John G. Fagerholm Jr. 

Gerd immigrated to the United States of America in her early twenties, where she worked primarily in finance and went on to become the business manager for the Bethel Board of Education where she worked for 25 years. She was one of the first woman business managers of a school district in Connecticut. She was an active member of several organizations in Florida that were both fun and gave back to the community. She treasured the friends she made.

Gerd was an avid knitter, and in her free time you could often find her working on her next knitting project. She loved to gift her projects to family members and friends, and she cherished seeing her loved ones stay warm with her creations. She was an amazing hostess and cook, throwing beautiful family gatherings any chance she got. Everyone was welcome and felt at home at Gerd’s house, where she was lovingly referred to as “Bestemor” meaning “Best Mom” in Norwegian. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

Gerd is survived by her beloved daughter Laila Rudinas (husband George), stepson John G. (Skip) Fagerholm III (wife Wendy), stepdaughter Lynnea Whitton, and stepdaughter Lydia Baldwin (husband Geoffrey). Eight grandchildren: Daniel Tucciarone (wife Ashleigh), Joshua Rudinas, Kristine Rudinas, Whitney Markel (husband Brian), John G. (Gus) Fagerholm IV (fiance Katie), Alex Baldwin (wife Carrie Ann), Nicholas Baldwin (wife Elizabeth) and Amy Neal (husband Zachary). Four great grandchildren, and her sister Bjorg Amundsen. As well as many additional beloved family and friends. A special thanks to her nephew, David Fagerholm, who was dedicated to her care for the last several years. 

A Celebration of Life Gathering in both Florida and Connecticut to be announced. A scholarship in her memory is being established for students graduating from Bethel High School and going into Finance or Business. Contributions can be sent to the Bethel Board of Education, Attn: Suzanne Rodgers, P.O. Box 253, Bethel, CT 06801. Please reference the Gerd E. Fagerholm Memorial Scholarship in your correspondence.

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