John Henry Gerding

He was the beloved husband of the late Irene Louise (Zychowski) for over 50 years. Jack was the son of the late Edward and Helen (Kozimor) Gerding. He was preceded in death by his older brother Edward and his younger sister Rosemarie (Dick) Dow. Jack was a beloved uncle to 23 nieces and nephews and a friend to many.

Jack was a joyful, fun loving person since childhood. He maintained life-long friendships beginning with his Bader Avenue neighborhood, through Rhodes High School where he excelled in sports.

Jack proudly served in the US Army (1958-1960) and was stationed in Korea. Just before service and thereafter, he was employed by The Ohio Bell Telephone Company as a telephone lineman, working his way up into management for a career that spanned 30 years. There he was introduced to his future wife, Irene, and they were married in 1965 until her passing in 2018. Jack and Irene enjoyed travelling for many years within the US and Europe.

Jack loved dachshunds and for most of his married life there was always an Eric, a Mitzi or a Rosie toddling about. He adored his dog walking friends and the camaraderie when they lived at The Woods at Glencairn in Richfield.

Jack was both industrious and artistic and it showed most in their dream home in Sharon Center where he and Irene lived for 30 years. The yard and garden were beautifully landscaped by Jack’s own hands. With his extensive handyman skills, Jack generously shared his talents. He helped paint many walls, did electrical work, installed flooring and helped with moving. He also became a stained glass artist and created stunning window designs and decor for their home.

Jack loved fast cars, sporty boats, golf, bowling and card playing, as well as making a party out of spectator sports with a football or baseball game at the stadium or on TV. He was a card carrying member of the VFW.

Perhaps most notably though was his love for family. Jack and Irene hosted many, many holiday parties over the years with the Zychowski family and the Gerding/Dow/Kozimor families, as well as with a tight-knit group of friends. Jack was always busy setting up for the events. He was such a good sport for donning a Santa suit and coming in with a sack of gifts, delighting his nieces and nephews at Christmastime for many years. He had a huge heart and will be greatly missed.

Jack will be recognized with full military honors at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery followed by a memorial service and luncheon in September. The Rose Hill Cemetery website will post more details in late summer.