Passed away at Fairview Lodge in Whitby, Ont., Feb. 21, 2026, at 94. She is survived by her children, Gwen Monahan (Harvey) and Robert (Lisa), and her grandchildren, Drew (Kirsten Wilbur), Jessie and Jamie. She is also survived by her brother, Helmut. Predeceased by her husband, Adolf Gerlsbeck, and her sister, Anni.
Maria came to Canada from Germany in the 1950s and settled in Montreal, where she married Adolf. They eventually moved to Whitby and then to Scarborough, Ont. Maria loved going for walks and dancing. She also enjoyed playing the piano and listening to classical music – especially Beethoven and Mozart.
The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff at Fairview Lodge for their care of Maria. A private memorial will be held by the family at a later date.