Donald J Gerstenschlager

Donald J. Gerstenschlager passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, in Cave Creek, Az where he had resided for over 25 years. Don was born on November 10, 1942 in Watertown, NY. His parents were Donald G. and Rosemary (Allen) Gerstenschlager. He is survived by his three sisters Sylvia Macaulay of Dexter, NY, Barbara LaFave of Carmel, IN, and Joan Thyre of Baton Rouge, LA. Also survived by 10 nephews and one niece and numerous cousins.
At 15 he entered Wadhams Hall Seminary pursuing that path until his third year of theology attending the Jesuit Universita Gregoriana in Rome, Italy. He left and began studies as a Social Worker at Virginia Commonwealth University where he earned a Masters Degree. His career included work in the N.Y. State Mental Health System. After retirement he was in private practice as a clinician, retiring at age 70.
Don was a passionate humanitarian with a special interest in the homeless. For the last 10 years of his life he conceptualized a project which he called "The Learning and Growth Center" for the homeless.
His family knew Don as a kind and sincere, always ready to help, individual. He was optimistic and hopeful about the world we live in with dreams of amazingly wonderful times to come. To send flowers to the family of Donald, please visit our floral store.