Gerard Francis Dreiling

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church, Roswell, GA. Reception to follow. A service of inurnment, with full military honors, will take place at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Marietta, GA.

The son of Dorothy and Sylvester Dreiling, he was born on September 17, 1940, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Growing up in Cincinnati, he attended St. Clair Grade School, St. Xavier High School, and graduated from Xavier University with a bachelor’s degree in business, while he was also an ROTC cadet. Who knew that when Gerry raised his hand along with his friends with interest in flying, he was about to embark on a career in aviation. He served honorably as an aviation officer in the Army during the Vietnam War.

While in college, by chance, Gerry met the love of his life, Mary Kathryn (Kathy) Meister. Kathy drew his name out of a hat to be her date for the evening. It was love at first sight, and the couple wed in 1965. After a tour in Vietnam, he began a distinguished career with Delta Air Lines, retiring as an L-1011 Captain after 31 years. His mission in life was to live life to its fullest. As an avid athlete and sports fan, Gerry enjoyed many sports, and, most of all, golf, of which he has numerous holes-in-one. He even learned the game of soccer so he could coach the girls’ soccer team. During the summer and fall, one would often find Gerry rooting for his favorite sports teams – Atlanta Braves, Notre Dame and Auburn. He always looked forward to the next travel experience whether it was by land, air or sea. The trips he appreciated most were those with family including skiing, cruises, participating in his grandchildren’s milestone events and visiting family members all over the country. Gerry loved family and was always grateful for the time spent with all. He was an adoring loyal husband, a loving father and an amazing grandfather who will be, above all, known for his fun-loving spirit, sense of adventure, and his gift for telling stories and jokes.

Additionally, Gerry was a man of strong faith, service and had many interests. He was constantly giving of himself in so many ways. Throughout his adult life, he was involved with the Knights of Columbus, Eucharistic Ministry, Habitat for Humanity, Clark Howard volunteers, and natural disaster relief efforts. At home, he was meticulous about his lawn and garden, especially, he loved his roses, and for many years he served as HOA president in his neighborhood. Gerry never held back in putting forth his all in everything he did. He set a great example of when you set your mind on a goal, anything is possible. He had a way of making things happen and bringing everyone else on board, all with a smile on his face and a positive attitude.

Gerry is preceded in death by his mother Dorothy and father Sylvester Dreiling; brother-in-law Thomas Heidrich; and niece Susan Heidrich.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years and best friend, Kathy Dreiling; daughter Debbie Dreiling Donohue (husband Chris); daughter Beth Dreiling Sneed (husband Rob); grandchildren, Brian Donohue and Erin Donohue; sister Anita Heidrich and nephew Mark Heidrich.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Peter Chanel