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
Crittendon; step-grandchildren, Dakota Crittendon 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.