Geraldine (Geri) J. Bivans, age 87, of Lake Geneva, WI passed away peacefully November 5, 2016 at Lakeland Healthcare Center in Elkhorn. Born on February 8, 1929 in Berwyn, IL, Geri was the daughter of the late Christian and Esther (Heggestuen) Johnson. A loving mother of four and grandmother of six, Geri spent her career as a dedicated and hardworking nurse. Geri's caring and nurturing personality made her truly special to everyone who knew her.

Throughout her life, Geri allowed her strong faith to guide her. After retiring from the Visiting Nurses Association in Lake Geneva, she enjoyed volunteering at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Family time was a cherished part of Geri's life and she spent countless hours honoring her Norwegian family traditions. Among her favorites was making Lefse for the holidays with her children and grandchildren. Geri lived a full life enjoying cooking and entertaining, reading, sewing, knitting and spending precious time with family and friends.

She is survived by her four children: Kathleen (Fred) Raasch of Milwaukee, WI, Marcia (Kevin) Kennelly of Cary, IL, Donald Kennedy of Chicago, IL and Paul Bivans (Reggie Husar) of Chicago, IL. She is further survived by her six grandchildren: Tracy Raasch (Michael Sweeney), Dan Raasch, Julianne (Benjamin) Stevenson, Jim (Ali Mahoney) Kennelly, Micaela (Matt) Lopardo and Megan Kennedy. She was preceded in death by her brother Arnold Johnson.

The family wishes to thank all of the wonderful caregivers at Arbor Village, Lakeland Healthcare Center and the entire Aurora Hospice team.

Visitation will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lake Geneva on Saturday, November 19, 2016 from 12:00-2:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Geri's name to Immanuel Lutheran Church at 700 N. Bloomfield Road, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. Online condolences are welcome at www.haaselockwoodfhs.com. The Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Elkhorn, WI is assisting the family.