Gerdes, Gerd 1876 - 1918

GERDES, DIRKS, ROSE, KRAY, FREDERICK

Posted By: Reid R. Johnson (email)
Date: 12/6/2021 at 07:10:51

Elkader Register & Argus, Thur., 05 Dec. 1918. Strawberry Point column.

Gerd Gerdes was born January 07, 1876 at Middles, Province Pose, Hanover, Germany. Having grown to manhood he with his widowed mother and the rest of the family came to this part of our country in 1900, where already others of his relationship had settled. The son of poor parents, he succeeded in a competence of hard labor and industry.

On Feb. 25, 1902 he was united in marriage with Miss Anna Dirks. This union proved to be a very happy one. Two children were given to them, Marie and John. On November 15 he was attacked by influenza and other complications setting in, he was unable to overcome the disease. Early Sunday morning he passed into the land of peace.

Mr. Gerdes belonged to that noble and modest class of citizens who strictly fulfill their whole duty to their country, friends, and family, and his kind disposition, his honesty and modesty won the confidence of all who knew him. Loving and true as a husband, kind and indulgent as a father, his home was indeed his resting place, and to it and his family he gave his thought and strength. He was a devout member of the Lutheran church of this place.

Those who mourn his premature death are, beside his widow and two children, an aged mother, Mrs. Etta Rose, two sisters, Mrs. Geo. Kray and Mrs. John Frederick, all living in this vicinity. The funeral was held Tuesday afternoon at one o'clock from the home of the deceased. A special memorial service will be held later on.