Obituary: Mary Gerlach

Longtime Cloquet resident and community member dies at 89

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Mary J. (Woods) Gerlach, a longtime resident of Cloquet, Minnesota, passed away on January 25, 2026, at the age of 89. She was a graduate of Denfeld High School and the University of Minnesota Duluth, and was a devoted member of the Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Mary and her husband, Robert, enjoyed spending time with friends and family, especially during their summers on Big Lake and winters in Fort Myers, Florida.

Why it matters

Mary Gerlach's passing marks the end of an era for the Cloquet community, where she and her husband were active members for decades. Her commitment to her faith, family, and community are a testament to the values that have shaped the region.

The details

Mary Gerlach was born on October 2, 1936, in Duluth, Minnesota, to Sidney and Florence (McCarthy) Woods. She married Robert C. Gerlach on August 6, 1960, and the couple celebrated 60 years of marriage just prior to Robert's death in 2021. Mary is survived by her three children, Julie (John) Hanowski, Jean (Bob) Gessell, and Jon (Kay) Gerlach, as well as her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

  • Mary Gerlach passed away on January 25, 2026.
  • Mary and Robert Gerlach celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary just prior to Robert's death in 2021.
  • Mary was born on October 2, 1936.

The players

Mary J. (Woods) Gerlach

A longtime resident of Cloquet, Minnesota, who passed away at the age of 89. She was a graduate of Denfeld High School and the University of Minnesota Duluth, and was a devoted member of the Queen of Peace Catholic Church.

Robert C. Gerlach

Mary Gerlach's husband, with whom she celebrated 60 years of marriage just prior to his death in 2021.

Julie (John) Hanowski

One of Mary Gerlach's three children.

Jean (Bob) Gessell

One of Mary Gerlach's three children.

Jon (Kay) Gerlach

One of Mary Gerlach's three children.

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The takeaway

Mary Gerlach's life was defined by her strong Christian faith, her devotion to her family, and her active involvement in the Cloquet community. Her passing marks the end of an era for the region, but her legacy of service and community engagement will continue to inspire those who knew her.