Gere Oaks went to be with her Lord and Savior Thursday, April 28, 2011. She was born in Hayden, Colo., on Jan. 22, 1933, to Herbert and Margaret Summer.

She grew up in Hayden, graduated from Hayden High School and attended Colorado University. Gere and all her sisters worked for Mountain Bell in Colorado. Gere met and married Darell Oaks, and to this marriage four children were born in Denver.

The family then moved to Coeur d'Alene in 1968 to pursue new business ventures. Gere dedicated her life to raising her family and running the family businesses in Coeur d'Alene. Gere was a smart, courageous and strong woman who loved life, her children and grandchildren to the fullest. Her hobbies were gardening, needle point, knitting, reading and she loved cooking and hosting family gatherings. She was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church where she served for many years on the Lutheran Women's Ministry League.

She is survived by her children, Kim (son-in-law Paul) Torgerson, Kevin Oaks, Keith (daughter-in-law Joni) Oaks and Kent Oaks. Four beloved grandchildren; Ashley Torgerson, Levi Torgerson, Dylan Oaks, and Cole Oaks. She is also survived by two sisters; Charlene Barnes and Vicki Summer. She also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Margaret Summer and two sisters Bobette Bryant and Sally Penley.

Mom we love you and you will be greatly missed by all.

Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 3, 2011, at Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d'Alene Chapel. Please visit Neva's memorial and sign her online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.