Stephen W. Gerardot

Stephen W. Gerardot, 74, of Fort Wayne, Indiana passed away Thursday afternoon, April 8, 2021, at his residence following a sudden medical event.

He was born October 12, 1946 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to Ralph “Sport” and Doris (Anderson) Gerardot.  His father preceded him in death on May 9, 2006.

Steve was an honorably discharged member of the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War.

He was a self-employed body shop owner from 1976 until his retirement in 2010.

Gardening was Steve’s life.  It was appropriate that he was in the garden on the day he died.  He grew foods he didn’t like because he knew others would benefit.  He would place a produce stand at the front of his property which was frequently visited.  In his spare time, he would tinker with mowers and other mechanical items.  He would compete with his mother in crossword puzzles.  He would spend time watching IU Basketball and Cincinnati Reds baseball games.

He is survived by his mother, Doris Gerardot of Fort Wayne, Indiana; four sisters, Laura (Jack McCullough) Beery, Carol (Tom) Brames, and Joan (Michael) Aurand all of Monroeville, Indiana and Ellen (James) Wyss of New Haven, Indiana; brother, Jeff (Becky) Gerardot of Fort Wayne, Indiana; two brothers-in-law, Matt Richard of Monroeville, Indiana and Jim Rumschlag of Decatur, Indiana.  He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

In addition to his father, Ralph "Sport" Gerardot; he was preceded in death by three sisters, Barbara Gerardot, Patricia Rumschlag, and Nancy Richard; and a nephew, Greg Rumschlag.

A prayer service will be held at 9:20 a.m. Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at the Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home, Jacobs Chapel in Monroeville followed by a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Rose Catholic Church in Monroeville with Father Maicaal Lobo officiating.  Burial will be at St. Rose Catholic Cemetery in Monroeville with Military Graveside Honors to be conducted by the American Legion Post #420 Color Guard.

The Holy Rosary will be recited at 4:00 p.m. Monday, April 12, 2021, at the Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home, Jacobs Chapel in Monroeville followed by visitation from 4:30 – 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. The family has asked that all visitors wear masks.

Preferred memorials are to St. Rose Catholic Church in Monroeville.

Arrangements are by Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home – Jacobs Chapel in Monroeville, Indiana.