Gerda Malena Cavanaugh, 81, of Eau Claire, died Tuesday, July 11, 2006, at Dove Health Care, after an 18 month battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born in Eau Claire on February 14, 1925, to Gilbert and Martha (Dahl) Peterson.\r\nShe graduated from Eau Claire Senior High School in 1942. She then worked at Woolworth's for nine years.\r\nGerda married Robert D. Cavanaugh at First Lutheran Church in Eau Claire on January 27, 1951. After his untimely death in January of 1965, she worked at F.S. Shopping Center, Pranges, and Younkers until her retirement. \r\nShe was a life-long member of First Lutheran Church, where she enjoyed working with the Altar Circle, Quilter's Club, and serving lunches at many church functions. Gerda also enjoyed time with her friends at Knitting Club. She was especially proud of her Norwegian heritage.\r\nGerda is survived by her beloved daughter, Tonetta "Toni" (Scott Lindseth) Cavanaugh; two brothers, Norman (Bernadette) Peterson and Gordon (Marcia) Peterson all of Eau Claire; three sisters-in-law, Beverly (Elroy) Huwe of Eau Claire, Bonnie Young and Judy (Charles) Dunn of California; brother-in-law, David (Carol) Cavanaugh of Eau Claire; and many special nieces, nephews, and friends.\r\nShe was also preceded in death by her parents.\r\nGerda was a kind and caring person who will be sadly missed by all those who knew and loved her.\r\nFuneral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, July 14, 2006, at First Lutheran Church with Pastor Amy Odgren officiating. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 10 a.m. until time of services Friday at the church. Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral&Cremation Services is serving the family.\r\nPlease direct memorials to the family.\r\n

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