Ray A. Gerdes

Ray A. Gerdes, 72, of New Haven, MO, passed away Monday, July 1, 2019 at Mercy Hospital, Washington, MO.

Ray was born in St. Louis, MO on June 24, 1947, a son of the late Adolph & Nelda (Althage) Gerdes.

He was the husband of Connie (Meyer) Gerdes. They were united in marriage on October 11, 1969 at Ebenezer Stone Church, Gerald, MO.

Ray proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1966-1968. He was a member of Ebenezer Stone Church, Gerald, where he served as Board President and was also on the board for the church cemetery. He was also a member of the Local 513 Operating Engineers for 30 years, the New Haven American Legion, New Haven German American Club, New Haven Cemetery advisory member, and he was on the M.F.A. Board of Directors.

He worked for many years for Arrow Drilling, of Pacific, MO. After retirement Ray had a gravel hauling business and was happy delivering gravel to many in the area.

Ray was a proud father and grandfather and was happiest spending time with his family. He loved going on trips to Germany, cruising with friends, fishing, deer hunting, and he made some of the best deer sausage around.

Ray is survived by his wife Connie Gerdes of the home, a son, Eric Gerdes & special friend Sherry Byram of Gerald, MO; a daughter, Julie Westermeyer & husband Todd of New Haven, MO; a son, Doug Gerdes & wife Michelle of New Haven, MO; by five grandchildren, Dalton Gerdes, Emma & Jacob Gerdes, and Ellie and Ryan Westermeyer, by his twin brother, Roy Gerdes & wife Janeial of New Haven; three sisters-in-law, Diane Gerdes of New Haven; Carol Meyer & husband Jim of Rosebud, MO; and Peggy Borcherding & husband Bob of Gerald; and by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation was held Friday, July 5 from 2 to 8 p.m. at Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home, New Haven.

Funeral services were held Saturday at 10 a.m. at Ebenezer Stone Church, Gerald, MO, with Pastor  Glen Hollander officiating.

Burial was at Ebenezer Stone Church Cemetery. Memorials may be given to Ebenezer Stone Church. C/O Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home.