William D. Gerdes
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Memorial services for William Dean Gerdes, 81, Lecompton, will be held at 1:00 PM Monday, May 22, 2023, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lawrence. William passed away on Monday, May 15, 2023, at his home.
William was born on May 22, 1941, in Odell, Nebraska, the son of William R and Grace (Tjaden) Gerdes. He was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel (Stateline) Lutheran church at Wymore, NE. Bill and his twin sister were talented soloists and he loved music. He graduated from Marysville High school in 1959. Bill married Linda Henrichs on September 28, 1963. They farmed Bill’s home place for many years where, as a family, he enjoyed raising and showing Quarterhorses. Bill was active on the church council and cemetery board. He served on the Herkimer Coop Board of Directors and was a member of the Marshall County Fair Board. He was a founding member of the national USDA-Advisory Committee. In 1990, he and Linda moved to Lecompton, Ks. He continued working as field enumerator and Field Supervisor at USDA-NASS/NASDA and enjoyed his farm background from a whole new aspect.
Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Linda, son, Richard (Penny) Gerdes, daughter DeAnn (Michael) Steinle. Grandchildren Aaron and Nora Steinle. Linda’s sister, Joanne (Roger) Jones. Also, numerous nieces and nephews.
William was preceded in death by his parents, William. R. and Grace Gerdes, twin sister, Wilma Schell and sister, Edna Schwarz; Linda’s parents, Hiye and Edith Henrichs, and sister-in-law; Marge Maguire.
Memorial contributions will determined by the family at a later date and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
My deepest condolences to you and your family. I appreciated being around such loving and gracious people, under such sorrowful circumstances. I will pray that you find peace and healing in this difficult time. Call if you need anything. May God Bless you with strength in the days to come.
May the peace and joy from memories shared help you through this time and in the future. The family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Linda, Rich & Dee,
What a great picture! Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you at this tough time. It’s so hard to lose someone even though they lived a long and blessed life. May your wonderful memories give you comfort.
Steve & Deb Blumer
I worked with Bill at NASS for several yrs. He was a great employee, always glad to see him come by. He kept us up to date on K U. He had the most pleasant personality, that I am sure he had many many friends. How could you not like him!! So sorry for your loss.
Mamy happy memories growing up with your family. Bill was a fun and generous man. Wishing you peace and comfort.
Linda Huddleston Litzenberger
Linda, I know how you are hurting now. But know God was there welcoming Bill. Lots of memories ! Love , Donna
Linda, Dee & family. I am so sorry for your loss. I never met Bill but I felt like I knew him from the priceless stories Linda would tell. One in particular is the nail polish, Bill and Nora story! May the fond memories that you have to cherish provide you with strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Love, Pat
Linda, and family; i am so sorry to hear Bill has passed. For many years Bill and you were the best neighbors anyone could ever ask for. I will always remember him on May 22nd the day of both our birthdays when we would share a cold one to celebrate. Bill will be missed by everyone who new him.
Linda, my heart and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Due to mobility issues I will not be able to attend services. However my thoughts and love will be with you.
Sandra Reed
I’m so sorry-may you and your family find peace and strength during this time. It was such a joy to come deliver the Girl Scout Cookies to you and to see Bill and the dog.
Many fond memories of good times back in the day.
Dee, Linda and family:
I am very sorry for your family’s loss. May your memories comfort you.
Linda, I’m so very sorry for your loss. God bless you and your family at this very difficult time.
Linda and family,
We have lots of fond memories of Bill, you and the pups. Having friends like you in Lecompton made our lives full of joy.
Knowing God welcomed Bill home helps ease the pain of loss. May the road ahead bring memories close and remind you all of the beautiful love you shared. Our prayers and love are with you, even from far away.
Bob and Barbara Jernigan.
Our biggest hugs, our love and our prayers for you and the family. So many fun and happy memories we have back on the farm with you all! Glad we have them. Bill was always the nicest guy! Love, Keith and Kathy
We lost a great friend and co worker. A great guy!!
Loved working with Bill hauling bales. He was always easy to work for, but the thing I remember the most was the wonderful lunch Linda always made. I especially enjoyed the kolaches. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Linda and your family during this difficult time.
My deepest condolences for you and your family Linda. May you be comforted by your memories of a long, love filled life with your husband.
Dear Linda, Rich and DeAnn,
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I knew and worked with Bill for many years, he was always the “go to guy” when we needed something done right. He was a great guy and a good friend. I remember fondly the many conversations and road trip’s we shared. God bless you and your family at this very difficult time.
Gerdes Family,
I worked with Bill when I was in the Topeka (NASS) office. I always enjoyed our conversations about KU sports and agriculture in Kansas. He was always upbeat and positive. A person of great character who I will never forget. God bless the Gerdes family during this difficult time.
I was sorry to hear about Bill. I remember you telling stories about how Bill took pride in his lawn. He was blessed to have a partner like you. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.