James Gerding Obituary

James R. "Jim" Gerding

James R. "Jim" Gerding, 82, of Kalida, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023, at Mercy Health - St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima.

Jim was born Jan. 12, 1941, in Glandorf, the son of Cornelius and Eleanor (Rosenbauer) Gerding. He married Helen S. Lammers on Aug. 22, 1964, at New Cleveland Holy Family Catholic Church, and she survives.

Jim is also survived by four children, Mark (Mary) Gerding of Kalida, Roger (Kim) Gerding of Ada, and Mike (Annette) Gerding and Alan Gerding, both of Kalida; seven grandchildren, Neil (Lexi) Gerding of Kalida, Carrie (Houston) Fortney of Columbus, Abby Gerding and Alison Gerding, both of Ada, Trent Gerding of Cincinnati, Tara Gerding of Troy, and Maria Gerding of Kalida; great-grandchild, James G. Gerding; brothers, John (Nancy) Gerding of Miller City, Steve (Gina) Gerding of Glandorf, and Don (Joan) Gerding of Ottawa; and sister-in-law, Judy Gerding of Ottawa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Imogene (Jim) Jones and Norma (Dave) Fackler; and brother, Melvin "Butch" Gerding.

Jim was self-employed as co-owner of Jim & Mel's Union 76 Service Station in Ottawa. Jim was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida, and its Holy Name Society. He was also a member of Kalida Fish & Game and Ottawa Eagles. Jim served in Army National Guard and with Putnam County Sheriff Auxiliary. He loved his grandchildren. He loved watching his sons and grandchildren's sports and other school activities. Jim especially loved little James. He enjoyed his woodworking, sawmill, fishing, and hunting. Many young people knew him as the "Bubble Gum Man."

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida, with Fr. Nathan Bockrath officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, with a scripture service at 1:45 p.m. at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township, and and 9-10 a.m. Friday.

Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association or charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.