William J. Gerdeman

William Joseph Gerdeman, age 75, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Dec. 14, 2024, after a brief battle against cancer.

Bill was born June 7, 1949, in Lima, Ohio, to the late Donald Joseph Gerdeman and Cecilia Gerdeman. He lived most of his life in Ohio, residing in Kalida, Napoleon and Fremont before moving to Aiken, South Carolina, five years ago. Bill received his bachelor of technology degree from University of Dayton and retired after 40 years as an engineer. He was V8 plant manager and maintenance manager for Campbell's Soup Supply Co. and held multiple engineering roles with Heinz Ketchup. When he met his wife, Barbara, he jumped right in and raised her two boys as his own. He was a very proud Dad, never missing any of Neal's football games or wrestling matches. Bill loved golf and scored his first hole in one last year. He was also a proud member of the Elks. Bill will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Mark.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 46 years, Barbara Sue Gerdeman; one son, Neal Gerdeman (Barbara); two step sons, Todd Scheele and Tim Scheele; brothers, James Gerdeman (Mary-Jo), David Gerdeman (Pam) and Alan Gerdeman (Ruth); step grandchildren; step great-grandchildren; as well as aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 10 a.m Jan. 18 at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, 16085 Ohio-634, Fort Jennings, Ohio 45844, with a funeral service following at noon. Interment will follow in St. Michael's Cemetery, Kalida, Ohio.