Geraldine Fern Blackwell Perrigo, known affectionately as Geri, passed away on August 14, 2024, in Rapid City, South Dakota, at the age of 80. Born on December 14, 1943, in Bloomington, Illinois, she was the daughter of Lawrence and Helen Ruckman. Geri's early years in Illinois were the foundation of her strong, independent, and God-fearing character. In 1976, seeking better opportunities, she relocated to Rapid City, SD, with her family.

Geri was a pillar of strength, raising five children while her husband, a trucker, was often on the road. Known for her outspoken nature and strict but caring upbringing, she was truly the rock of her family. Geri leaves behind a legacy of love and perseverance, marked by her deep connections with family and friends.

She is survived by her brothers, Lloyd, Larry, and Jim Ruckman; her children, Rose of Pearland, TX, Robin, Larry, Marsh, and Bob, all of Rapid City, SD; and her grandchildren, Kimmi, Elijah, Jaelin, Joshua, Stephanie, Tyler, Shane, Brenden, Michelle, Amber, Jamie, Jesse, Zach, and Kat. Geri was also a proud great-grandmother to Karli, Brianna, Haley, Gabriel, Caleb, Michael, Michael, Axel, Logan, Malachi, Jericho, Jordan, Kaelan, Justice, Ashton, Riley, Emilie, and Mason. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Her life was preceded by her parents, Lawrence and Helen Ruckman, her stillborn twin sisters, her brother Jack, her first husband and true love Dean, and a second husband, Rex.

A private gathering to honor Geri's life will be held at a cherished local park, a place filled with fond memories from her children's upbringing. The family will dedicate a spruce tree in her memory, reflecting her love for spruce trees and TY Beanie Bears, with some of her favorite bears to adorn the tree. Otherwise, some of her ashes will be spread at her mom and dad's graves in Pine Lawn Memorial Park, time to be determined as yet.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Geri can be made to the following organizations, which reflect her values and interests: A Place for Mom, the Alzheimer's Association South Dakota Chapter, and Avantara Saint Cloud. Links to these charities can be found at:
- https://www.aplaceformom.com
- https://www.alz.org/sd/helping_you
- https://www.avantarasaintcloud.com

Geri's memory will be cherished by all who knew her, as her spirit and legacy continue to inspire those she loved.