Evelyn Gerlach was a marriage and family therapist in Santa Barbara for nearly a half century, but many people would recognize her from her early-morning walks down State Street with her husband, Lorenz, always holding hands and saying good morning to all they encountered. Lorenz, who was also a therapist, died five years ago. Evelyn was also a self-taught artist whose paintings adorned her home and were also displayed at the Jewish Community Center during the Kristallnacht commemoration last December.
As Evelyn grew frail, she was able to remain in her home with the help of caregivers. But her mind remained crystal sharp. About a year ago, she presented me with her autobiographical obituary. I realized that it might be a good thing for all of us to do, to review our lives and talk about what has been important.
Evelyn died in April of this year, soon after her 97th birthday. I still hear her voice in my head, and I miss her laughter. Here is Evelyn Gerlach in her own words. —Cynthia Martin
