Nicholas Martin Gerhauser

Nick grew up in Elwell, Michigan, and graduated from Alma High School in 1999. A proud Alma Tiger, he played basketball and was nicknamed “Nick the Gunner” as he was known for his ability to swish a three-point shot. He earned MVP honors, and his jersey, number 42, was retired.

In 2000, Nick moved to Arizona with his parents, where he worked alongside his self-employed father, Fred Gerhauser, at Central Forklift Service in Peoria as a skilled forklift driver and mechanic. He later worked for Amazon Distribution in Goodyear for 11 years, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic and impeccable record.

Nick was a devoted sports fan who cheered passionately for the University of Michigan and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He enjoyed attending NASCAR races with his dad, as well as camping, boating, and relaxing around the campfire. He loved spending time with friends, whether hanging out after work with his Amazon crew or gathering to watch football. Above all, he treasured time with his family and many friends.

Known affectionately as a “gentle giant,” Nick was defined not by his height, but by his kind heart, warm spirit, and unforgettable smile. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Nick was preceded in death by his father, Fred A. Gerhauser, Sr., and his brother, Fred A. Gerhauser, Jr.

He is survived by his mother, Cinda L. Gerhauser; his stepfather, Bradford Goodwin of Sebewaing, Michigan and Peoria, Arizona; his sister, Sally (Martin) Hartz (lovingly known as “Sis-tator Tot”) and her spouse, Bradley Hartz of White Lake, Michigan; his sister, Sherrie Gerhauser of Ypsilanti, Michigan; his nieces, Madison Hartz, Kaitlynn Tulett, Hannah Tulett, and Jessica McAdory; his nephew, Brendan Hartz of White Lake; and his great-nephew, TJ McAdory of Oak Park, Michigan; his stepbrothers, Levi Goodwin of Saginaw, Michigan and Joel Goodwin of Caro, Michigan, and his stepsister, Amy Valdez of Mt. Morris, Michigan.

Nick will be deeply missed by his best friend since childhood, Thad King of Elm Hall, Michigan, as well as his Amazon family and close friend and fellow forklift driver, Melissa. He especially cherished becoming part of the Goodwin family and spending summers with them.

Services will be held at Bellevue Heights Church, 9440 W. Hutton St., Sun City, Arizona, on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. A second service will take place on Friday, May 29, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at the American Legion in Sebewaing, Michigan.

Nick’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy of kindness will not be forgotten. We will continue to honor him by saying, as he often did, “GO BLUE!”