Michael John Gerber

Michael John Gerber, passionate about family, friends, dentistry, and farming, passed away on June 12, 2014. A native and lifelong resident of Modesto, Mike was born October 24, 1959 and attended Beyer High School, CSU Stanislaus, UC San Diego, and University of the Pacific School of Dentistry.

Mike's family was everything to him, with an enduring love for his wife Kelly and three children Nate, Maci, and Sam. He was active in the kids education, sports activities, dance recitals, and clubs, and his legacy will be felt in the way he taught them compassion and the value of hard work. Ranching was an important part of Mike's life, and will continue as the family cares for his successful orchards. Together, Mike and his family enjoyed boating, swimming, skiing, traveling, watching the sun rise, and gatherings with friends. He lived life to the fullest, diving (sea and sky), flying, swimming with the Modesto Area Aquatic Club and in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon.

Mike always managed to find time for his parents, James and Nell Gerber, and his siblings Jim, Karen, Robert, Kimberly, and Tom (all surviving). Mike particularly enjoyed cutting roses from his garden for his mom, brightening the home of his parents as well as his office.

Mike was passionate about dentistry, inspired by his father James Gerber, DDS. His patients remember Mike's gentleness, personal interest, and perfectionism. He treated patients, assistants, and professional colleagues, including the groundskeepers with whom he shared coffee every morning, like family. From 1995-2001, Mike served on the Board of Directors of the Stanislaus Dental Association, was President in 2000, and was a longtime Chair of the Ethics Committee. He was a delegate to the California Dental Association, 1999-2001.

Also active in the community, Mike was past President and Life member of the Modesto "500" Lions Club, the recipient of a Melvin Jones Award, and of the first annual Robert Kriese Lionism Award for extraordinary humanitarian efforts in service to others.

Visitation hours at Lakewood Funeral Home (900 Santa Fe Ave., Hughson) are Wednesday, June 18 from 4:00-8:00 pm. Testimonials can be submitted online to www.lakewoodhughson.com.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Big Valley Grace Community Church, 4040 Tully Road, Modesto, Friday, June 20 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Mike's name to the American Cancer Society, Hospice Care, and YES (Youth Entertainment Stage) Company, 3920 Bluebird Dr. Modesto, CA 95356.

Mike was loved and will be missed by all.