Paige Gerson, 56, beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend, passed away on Sept. 16.
Born in Kansas City on Feb. 18, 1969, she is remembered for her commitment to helping others and serving her community as well as for her adventurous spirit, which propelled her through every chapter of her life.
Whether running marathons, mountain biking, skiing or country dancing, she embraced the world with vibrant energy and a deep appreciation for every experience. Her love for adventure travel took her to far corners of the globe, always seeking connection, beauty and meaning.
A passionate and curious learner, Paige attended Tulane University and Simmons College before graduating from Kansas State University. In her adult life, she became multilingual and was especially devoted to studying Spanish. She often used her fluency to serve others, volunteering as a translator for the Resurrection Overland Park Food Pantry, Catholic Charities Food Pantry and Clothes with Dignity, where she offered kindness and support across language and cultural boundaries.
Paige lived with mental illness, and her journey with it shaped both her empathy and her fierce commitment to helping others. She founded a Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) group in Overland Park, Kansas, creating a space of hope and understanding for others navigating similar challenges. Her willingness to speak openly and act boldly in support of mental health made a lasting difference in the lives of many.
Paige is survived by her two beloved children, Levi and Tess Gerson; her mother, Barbara Fromm; her brother, Ross Fogel; and her partner, Ron Sanders. She is preceded in death by her father, Eugene Valins. Though her life was marked by profound challenges, it was also marked by love, generosity and an enduring sense of purpose.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Paige’s honor to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance of Overland Park (DBSA) at dbsaop.org, an organization she championed with passion and heart.
