Gerald Bernard Didde

Gerald Bernard Didde, known as Gerry, was born on October 20, 1949, in Emporia, Kansas to parents Bernard and Dorothy (Diebolt) Didde. He passed away on June 23, 2025, at the Villa St Francis Catholic Care Center in Olathe, Kansas.

A lifelong resident of Ottawa, Kansas, Gerry proudly went to Sacred Heart School and then graduated as part of the class of 1967 from Ottawa High School. Gerry began his college education at Benedictine College but left that journey unexpectedly to return to Ottawa to help his mother operate the family business, Didde Office Supply & Printing Co., after the sudden passing of his father. Gerry served as co-owner and operator of the business alongside his brother, Mike, until 2025. Gerry was a hardworking man and dedicated his time into his business for many years, often being seen driving throughout Ottawa in the "Didde Van”. Gerry was the definition of dedication and relentless work ethic.

On March 3, 1973, Gerry united in marriage to Donna Bray in Gardner, Kansas. Together, they cultivated a loving and supportive family, which remained central to Gerry throughout his life. He treasured his role as a husband, father, and grandfather, taking great pride in his family.

Gerry was more than just a committed businessman, he was a dedicated lifelong member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where if you didn’t hear him leading music from the altar or balcony, you heard his strong, deep voice in the congregation. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed cooking dinners for his fellow “Brothers”. In his younger years, Gerry was a Volunteer Reserve for the Ottawa Police & Fire Department, where he established many lifelong friendships. Gerry enjoyed rock polishing, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife Donna, of Ottawa; son Bernard Jonathan "B.J." Didde (Jamie) of Topeka; daughter Lora O'Connor (Thad) of Ottawa, Kansas; grandchildren Colin and Caitlin O'Connor and Molly and Myles Didde; sisters Mary Esteban (Ernest) of Scottsdale, Arizona, Anita Nolan (Michael) of De Soto, Kansas, Barbara Roberson of Atchison, Kansas; and brother Michael Didde (Debra) of Paola, Kansas. Gerry was preceded in death by his parents.

A Rosary will be said at 5:30 PM on Monday, June 30, 2025, followed by a visitation from 6-7:30 PM at Dengel & Son Mortuary, located at 235 S Hickory St, Ottawa, KS. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 426 South Cedar Street, Ottawa, KS, on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM, with interment to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 1310 East Logan Street, Ottawa, KS.

Gerald Bernard Didde will be deeply missed, but the memories of his unwavering love and support will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Sacred Heart Church, Sacred Heart School, Franklin County Cancer Foundation, or Villa St Francis c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.

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