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Tanya Ann Gherke, 54, of Parkersburg passed away September 30, 2026 at Marietta Memorial Hospital. She was born on October 14, 1971 in Parkersburg, WV a daughter of Richard Northrop and Elaine Smith.
Tanya had a great love not only for her children and grandchildren, but for everyone she encountered. Everyone who knew her was somehow touched by her loving and giving nature. She was a leader in all things and passionate about providing for those around her. She was the best mother, wife, gaga, and friend you could ask for. Although she will be dearly missed, we cherish the years with her and the healing she is now experiencing through Christ.
She is survived by her husband Bill Gherke, son Tyler Gherke (Shyla), daughters Jessica Gherke and Rebecca Baughan, grandchildren Maverick and Archer with a third grandchild on the way, her mother Elaine Smith, father Richard Northrop, sister Stacy Spears (Chuck), mother-in-law Joyce Gherke, sister-in-law Rita Chichester, brother-in-law Pat Gherke (Amy), and nephews Alex Brightwell and Graden McKinney.
Tanya was preceded in death by her grandparents Richard and Elizabeth Northrop, grandparents Rolla and Marie Reed, step-father Wayne Smith, brother-in-law Mark Gherke, and father-in-law Richard Gherke.
A gathering of family and friends will be held in her memory on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Leavitt Funeral Home of Parkersburg.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Strecker Cancer Center in Belpre or to Cawley Hospice in Marietta.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com