Jeanne Marie Alvarez (Gerth) went peacefully at home surrounded by her family, to be with her Savior on November 25, 2023, at the age of 81 in Birchwood, Wisconsin.

Born on February 25, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Jeanne was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ who spent her life showing and telling others about her Savior. Jeanne and her husband of 62 years, Arthur Alvarez, were dedicated Gideons and spent over 35 years buying and giving away hundreds of Bibles. Their mission to spread God's word touched the lives of many.

Together, with their 3 children, they owned and operated Hud n' Son's Bay Resort for 30 years, creating lasting memories and friendships around campfires and stories. In addition to her husband, Jeanne is survived by her three children: Beth Alvarez of Woodbury, MN; Artie (Gail) Alvarez of North St. Paul; and Joseph (Anna) Alvarez of Birchwood, Wisconsin. She was a loving grandmother to her three granddaughters, Alana Grace, Simona Mae, and Zofia Marie, whom she cherished deeply. Jeanne also leaves behind numerous life-long friends, cousins, and acquaintances who were impacted by her sweet spirit and genuine concern for others.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Helen Anne (Brainer) Gerth, her sister Ardeene Downs, and her brother Richard Gerth. She held a special place in her heart for her family members and friends who had gone before her into eternity.

Jeanne's career began while attending Jones Commercial High School in 1959 were she credited how to be a proper lady and conduct her business in an orderly fashion. From there she started her banking career at National Bank and ending at Mid-City Bank, where she worked for ten years before leaving the formal workforce to focus on raising her children. She dedicated many years to volunteering and helping the elderly in her neighborhood. She eventually became a Personal Care worker for Sawyer County, providing care and support to many elderly. While running, managing, and cleaning the Resort every weekend, she always took the time to take a photo of everyone who came and… “don’t forget to honk your horn when you leave, and we will pray for you”.

A wake to honor Jeanne's life will be held at Appleyard's Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI on Saturday, December 2nd, 2023 from 4-7:00pm.

The funeral service will take place at Immanuel Baptist Church in Rice Lake, on Sunday, December 3rd at 12:30. The burial will be on Monday, December 4th at 10:00am at Woodlawn Cemetery in Birchwood, WI.

Last Update: Nov 28, 2023 2:40 pm CST