Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1942
DIED
2025
Bernard Gerdts Obituary
July 19, 1942 - June 8, 2025
Bud Gerdts, age 82, passed away on June 8, 2025, in Green Valley, AZ.
Born on July 19, 1942, Bernard was a proud graduate of Our Lady of Victory and Patrick Henry High School. He served his country with honor in the United States Army National Guard beginning in 1960 and later in the Air National Guard from 1966 to 1968.
Bernard dedicated nearly three decades to public service as a member of the Minneapolis Police Department, serving from 1966 until his retirement in 1995. His commitment to his community was matched by his devotion to family and friends.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Gerdts; daughters, Jona (Brian) Richison and Jill (Paul) Enger; sisters, Joyce (Mike) Ward and Jacque (Tim) Moore; grandchildren, Christopher (Misty) Enger, Hayle Enger, Jamie (Gretchen) Richison and Joey Richison; great-grandchildren, Jeremiah Enger and Bennett Richison; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Bernard Joseph Gerdts; mother, Jane Inga Gerdts; and sister, Janet Bradley.
Outside of work and family life, Bernard found joy in golf and woodworking projects. He also spent many years coaching softball and basketball teams, sharing his time and enthusiasm with younger generations. Known for his fun-loving spirit and infectious laughter, Bernard left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bernard Gerdts
Diane Christopherson
June 25, 2025
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Jack and Terri Anderko
June 19, 2025
Jack and I were so sorry to see Bud´s obituary in the paper. Our most sincere sympathy to Elaine and all family members. Bud was a great guy.
Cindy Mnning
June 17, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this your time of sorrow and always.
Paul Chermak
June 15, 2025
My old buddy Bud and I had many great times growing up together in North Minneapolis. I was lucky to talk with him 2 weeks ago. We had fun in Palm Springs and Green Valley. May the Peace of Christ be with you my friend.
Kris Hanson
June 15, 2025
Bernard "Bud" was a client and friend. He was so fun loving and really enjoyed life to the fullest.
He always had a great story to share. I had the honor of helping him and Elaine with their Medicare Insurance needs. He will be greatly missed. Blessed be his memory.
The Behm Family
June 14, 2025
Goodbye,dear friend,rest in peace. You will never be forgotten
Larry Pudlick
June 14, 2025
We are saddened by the passing of Bud. We express our sincere condolences and prayers to Elaine, Jona, Jill, Joyce, Jacque and families. He will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Bud.
Pat Larson MacCormick
June 13, 2025
Prayers for his family as they grieve!
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results
Make a Donation
in Bernard Gerdts's name
Memorial Events
for Bernard Gerdts
How to support Bernard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Bernard Gerdts's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
