William D. Gerdes

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.