Dero Roger Gertsch

Returning to our Savior to be with his eternal companion, Dero R. Gertsch passed away on October 28, 2024, while in the care of his loving children. Dero leaves behind his four children, thirteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Dero is preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Carl and Theresia Bertram Gertsch, his wife Leslie H. Gertsch, his daughter, Kerri Ann Gertsch (2 1/2 years old), his son in law James Schofield, and his brother Steven Gertsch.
Dero was born on June 6, 1951, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was raised in Bountiful, Utah as one of four children of Benjamin and Theresia Gertsch, with his sister and two brothers.
Dero attended Viewmont High School and later graduated from Utah Technical College with a degree in Auto Mechanics as well as a Doctor of Motors student citation.
Dero met his wife Leslie through a mutual friend, and they were soon married March 27, 1975. The following year they were sealed for time and all eternity on March 28th. That day they were accompanied by his parents where Dero was also sealed to his parents, Benjamin and Theresia.
Dero and Leslie worked together and, with the help of family members, built their dream home. There they raised their five children Kathryn Elayne Schofield Balzly (Marshall) (Jim Schofield, deceased), Samuel Benjamin Gertsch (Kristine), Kerri Ann Gertsch (age 2 1/2, deceased), Alexander Dero Gertsch, and Elora Theresia Gertsch.
Having many interesting hobbies, Dero shared his love of geology with his family over the course of his adult life, enjoying many family trips comprised of rock hounding in remote places. Dero loved and cared for animals and taught all of his children how to properly catch rattlesnakes, along with raising and showing 4-H farm animals, too.
As a skilled builder and mechanic, Dero’s passion for cars could often be seen at their home, where he taught each of his children to be mechanical at different levels and how to care for their own cars. Dero was a “jack of all trades” and could mill or machine parts in his garage. Dero also found joy in serving others in the community and church with his many talents. We can't forget his sense of humor. He was always willing to laugh at life even if he was the only one laughing.
Dero was the eyes of his beloved wife for forty-four years. He dedicated much of his time and marriage to Leslie’s endeavors and service to the Utah Council of the Blind. As a quiet supporter and duty to serving the deaf and blind, Dero received an award for outstanding service to the blind community, the Sarah Talmage Award for lifetime service award, and the Council’s highest award, the Leslie H. Gertsch Memorial Leadership Award.
Even in the end, Dero’s long-suffering battle with advanced Parkinson’s did not dull his outlook and faith in his loving Heavenly Father’s plan. He was not one to complain much about his decline and proudly endured to the end. His positive outlook and presence will be missed.
A memorial service to honor Dero will be held at the LDS Chapel located at 800 W. 1500 S. in Woods Cross, Utah, on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024 at 12:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Utah Council of the Blind. Donations may be sent to: UCB, PO Box 1415, Bountiful, UT 84011-1415.