Tina Dudler Gerde was born on August 30, 1921 in Ketchikan, Alaska. The first eight years of her life were spent on Prince of Wales Island. She attended schools in Ketchikan and graduated from West Seattle High School. Returning to Ketchikan, she met and married Bob Gerde and the first 4 of their children were born. In 1946 they moved to Seattle where 2 more children were added, then moved to Kirkland in 1954, where they enlarged their family to 11 children. Bob and Tina felt they were so blessed, they had an opportunity to take in a child that needed them, and they did, making an even dozen.

Tina focused her life entirely on her husband and children. In 1972, Bob and Tina opened “ Bob’s Blue Ribbon Meats” in downtown Kirkland and ran a successful business together until 1985 when they retired. They spent time at their home on Rose Hill with many grandchildren, had wonderful family picnics, raised a beautiful garden and were devoted church members. Bob passed away in 2002. In 2009, Tina moved to Aegis Lodge in Totem Lake where she was lovingly cared for until her passing on January 6, 2017.

Tina is survived by her 12 children, Bob, Kriss, Nick, Karen, Jon, Kathee, Karol, Kandi, Kim, Tony, Jeff and Andy Montgomery. Also, 35 grandchildren and 34 great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at Rose Hill Church, 12202 N.E. 90th Street, Kirkland, WA. 98033 on Saturday, February 11, at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rose Hill Church children’s ministries.