Ronald E. Gerhardt

Ronald E. Gerhardt, age 78, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Ron was born in Fairmont, Minnesota, where he grew up, attended school, and worked on the family farm. During his school years, Ron was a natural leader and athlete. He proudly served as captain of both the football and basketball teams. His talent on the football field earned him a full-ride scholarship to the University of South Dakota, where he played tight end and started for four years. He was inducted into Fairmont Hall of Fame and University of South Dakota Hall of Fame for football.

After college, Ron built a long career with Hormel, where he worked for 40 years.

Above all else, Ron deeply loved his family. He shared 31 wonderful years of marriage with his second wife, Vicki, whom he loved dearly. They cherished 20 years building and living on their dream lake property near Sherburn, MN- "A Ltl Bitta Haven". He enjoyed working on the lake property and spending time with family. His late brother, Brad, convinced him to join Harmony Junction barbershop chorus and quartets and church choirs. He loved "ringing" those harmonic chords with his brother, Brad. Their music together was very special to him. Ron was a proud father, stepfather, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished time spent with his family.

Ron is survived by his wife, Vicki; his children, Jodi Rindflesch and Jason Gerhardt, Tony Roe, and Angie Tomlinson. He was a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his siblings Wayne, Elaine, Beverly, and Milah. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Gloria Gerhardt, his brother Brad, and granddaughter, Gracie.

Ron was a big man with an even bigger heart. Known to many as a gentle giant, he was a true teddy bear who gave the best hugs. His warmth, kindness, and love for his family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ron's memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

Memorials can be made to Mayo Hospice or Sweet Adeline Zumbro Valley Chorus.

He is healthy and now forever at home.