Obit of Donald Leroy Gerdes

Donald Leroy Gerdes, 75, of Longview Washington passed away peacefully early Friday, February 15, 2019 at home. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, February 22 at Grace Lutheran Church, 2725 Dover Street, Longview with Rev. Gary Hagen officiating. His earthly remains have been cremated. Mr. Gerdes was born on July 8, 1943 in Fairbury, Illinois, the son of Donald C. Gerdes and Luvern Martin Gerdes. He is survived by Linda, his wife of 31 years, of the family home. Also surviving are his three sons, Ed Gerdes (Linda) of Kansas City, Kansas, and twins John and David Gerdes of Milwaukie, Oregon; sisters Joy Ready of Sequin, Texas and Zoe (Glenn) Pearson  of Lafayette, Indiana; and stepsons Derek (Andrea) Doles of Billings, Montana and David (Kristin) Doles of Arvada, Colorado. He had 10 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He attended Chatsworth High School in Chatsworth, Illinois before joining the United States Navy where he served honorably and was a proud veteran. He was a member of the American Legion in Longview, Washington. Until retirement in 2014 Mr. Gerdes was employed by Commercial Carriers Inc. in Anchorage, Alaska. Previously, he worked in the trucking industry for more than 40 years in various capacities. Don was active in his church, Grace Lutheran, where he served as an Elder and Trustee and also on the Board of Trustees. His other interests included camping, fishing, square dancing and working to beautify his outdoor surroundings. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Heart Association (www.heart.org/Oregon) or charity of choice.