Gerda F. Cornell

Gerda F. Cornell (née Zikoll), from Bohemia, NY, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025.

Born on March 3, 1945, in New York, New York, Gerda was the daughter of Paul and Erna Zikoll. Throughout her life, she remained deeply connected to her heritage and community. Alongside her parents, she owned and operated Zikoll's Old Landmark Inn in Copiague, NY. Gerda was a proud member of the Steuben Society of America, Sen. Robert F. Wagner Unit 165 of Islip, New York. Her involvement reflected her enduring commitment to civic engagement and cultural preservation.

She was a longtime resident of Cleaves Point in East Marion, New York, where she found joy and comfort in the peaceful waterfront surroundings.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas William Cornell; her son, Thomas Paul Cornell; her sister, Dolores Mannale; and her parents, Paul and Erna Zikoll.

Gerda is lovingly remembered by her children: sons Matthew and Michael; daughters Rachel Polcini and Bernadette Shaw; son-in-law Robert Shaw; and granddaughters Anna Polcini and Angelica Polcini. Her legacy lives on through them and all who were touched by her presence.