Esther M. Gerker

Fort Jennings

Esther M. Gerker, 89, died at 6:10 p.m. Nov. 28, 2009, at Meadows of Kalida, Kalida.

She was born July 1, 1920, in Leipsic to John and Agatha Meyers Schmenk, who preceded her in death. On Oct. 10, 1945, she married Mellitus J. Gerker, who died April 28, 2004.

Mrs. Gerker was a homemaker and worked at Superior Coach during World War II. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings.

Survivors include three sons, Robert (Marilee) Gerker, of League City, Texas, Carl Gerker, of Palmdale, Calif., and David (Robin) Gerker, of Fort Jennings; a daughter, Marilyn (Rick) Spicer, of Lima; three grandchildren, Lauren Gerker, Steven Gerker and Kelly Spicer; a great-granddaughter, Lillian Morris; and a sister, Rose Schroeder, of Fostoria.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Victor and Leo Schmenk; two sisters, Marie Doepker and Leona Schmenk; and a grandson, Jeremy Spicer.

Services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township. The Rev. Joe Przybysz will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Fort Jennings.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home, where a Scripture service will begin at 3 p.m. Wednesday.

Memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Home Care and Hospice or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyerfuneralhome.com.