He was born on May 31, 1925, the son of the late Harry and Leona (Sifford) Abbott.
Gerald married the love of his life Bernice Hazel Kofron on February 2, 1946 in St. Louis. She preceded him in death on January 10, 1999.
He worked as a railroad carman for Alton and Southern railroad for 45 years. Gerald enjoyed spending time being an outdoorsman, hunting, fishing, and going to auctions.
He is survived by two daughters Nancy (Kenneth) Rettinghouse and Joyce Stookey both of Fairview Heights; a grandson Brandon (Stephanie) Stookey of Fairview Heights.
In addition to his wife and parents he was preceded in death by a grandson Kirk Rettinghouse; a brother Pat Abbott.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday September 18, 2018 from 5 pm to 8 pm at Lake View Funeral Home in Fairview Heights.
Funeral Service will be held at 10 am on Wednesday September 19, 2018 at Lake View Funeral Home in Fairview Heights.
Burial will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights.
Memorials may be made to The American Cancer Society.