Dean Gerdes

Clarence “Dean” Gerdes, 75, of Warsaw, passed away at 9:45 AM, Sunday, January 5, 2025, at the Golden Good Shepherd Home in Golden.

Dean was born November 18, 1949, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of George Luther and Lillie Loraine (Trautvetter) Gerdes. He attended Warsaw High School graduating in 1967. He then served in the Army National Guard for several years. Dean owned and operated Hamilton Implements and had several hobbies and interests including woodworking and wood carving. He was well known as “a jack of all trades, and a master of none” and also for his “B.S.” skills. Dean enjoyed people and could visit with anyone. He also enjoyed hunting and trapping, especially in his younger years. His trapping helped to purchase Marilyn’s engagement ring and on June 22, 1974, he was united in marriage to Marilyn Weaver in Memphis, Missouri. She survives. Together they enjoyed many years wintering in Florida. Dean was an avid fisherman and learned to hand knit fishing nets and hoops in the style of the native American Indian. He was a member of the Hamilton Masonic Lodge, Alpha 109 Chapter of Eastern Star and Miriam Shrine #3 of the White Shrine of Jerusalem.

Dean is survived by his wife, Marilyn, of Warsaw; daughter, Melissa (James) Crittenden of Fowler; a son, Erik (Cindy) Gerdes of Kleen, Texas; grandson, Scout River Crittenden; step-grandchildren, Dakota Crittenden and Skye (Peyton) Rinehart; and one step-great grandchild, Zooey Rinehart.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Anna Bell Pierce.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery in Warsaw with full military rites rendered by the U.S. Army Honors detail and Hancock County Honor Guard. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until the time of services at 11:00 at Printy Funeral Home in Warsaw. Dean had a great love for animals and memorials may be directed to the Hearts of Hancock Humane Society. Printy Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.