Age 97 passed away on August 28, 2025.
Geraldine “Gerry” Bradford of Bloomington, Minnesota passed away peacefully on August 28, 2025 at the age of 97 years old. Born September 7, 1927 in New Munich, Minnesota, Gerry grew up in Alexandria Minnesota, the first daughter of Peter and Lidwina Sonnen. Gerry is survived by her sister, Yvonne Lysaker; and by children, Gayle Cooner, Mary Kelley (Brian), Nita Bradford, and Walter Bradford (Nancy); several grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert; oldest son, Stephen; and son-in-law, Jack Cooner.
Gerry met her husband Robert “Bud” Bradford by looking across the street, the brother of her childhood best friend Dorothy. Upon graduating from St. Catherine’s with a bachelor’s degree, Gerry and Bud married in 1950. They moved several times in the early years of their marriage, before setting in Bloomington in 1958. Gerry had a quiet strength, a woman who rose to challenges with patience and without complaint. When faced with the need to be the family financial breadwinner, Gerry got her teaching certificate, worked long days in middle and high schools for over 30 years. Gerry saw the value of education, for herself and others. She went on to earn a Master of Education.
Not one to sit idle, Gerry enjoyed gardening, sewing, making dolls, and an annual visit to the Uptown art fair. She was active in her church, The Nativity of Mary in Bloomington. She made sure all her children knew how to read a recipe and do their own laundry.
Gerry appreciated the outstanding care she received from the staff at Nine Mile Senior Living, Vivie Care Suites of Edina and the Allina Hospice team.
To celebrate Gerry’s life, please gather on Wednesday, September 10th at Nativity of Mary Catholic Church, 9900 Lyndale Ave. S., Bloomington. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with a Mass at 11:00 am followed by lunch. The service can be livestreamed at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1FikWX3n4LcxSamMT7swr3gQnJbnrBgU