Linda Joyce “Pookie” Gaetner

Linda Joyce “Pookie” Gaertner (Limiero), 81, of Summerfield, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving husband and sons.

Born March 1, 1944, in New Rochelle, NY, Linda devoted over 25 years to the Wappingers Central School District and also worked at Happy Hours Daycare, where she nurtured countless children. She volunteered alongside her husband Otto at the Hillside Lake Firehouse Rescue Squad, reflecting a lifelong commitment to service.

Linda loved swimming and taught water aerobics, sharing her joy and energy with others. She cherished time with her sons and the laughter she shared with her close-knit bingo group, the “Bingo B’s.”

She is survived by her devoted husband, Otto Gaertner; sons Scott Gaertner (fiancée Kristi Pantalone) and Jeff Gaertner; brother Albert Limiero (wife Phyllis); and sister-in-law Dottie Castellano (husband Frank). In her final years, she faced Parkinson’s Disease with grace, supported by two exceptional caregivers, Kat and Melissa.

Linda’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and love. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Foundation of America at http://hospicecareinc.org or by phone at 1-800-317-5661.