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Franklin Gerber Obituary
EUREKA - Franklin "Frank" D. Gerber, 71, of Eureka passed away at 11:50 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2009, at his home.
A lifelong resident of Eureka, Frank was born there on Aug. 9, 1937, to Franklin E. and Margaret N. Van Fossen Gerber. He married his high school sweetheart, Sarah Cornelle Sides, on July 6, 1957, in Eureka, Ill. She survives.
Also surviving are one sister and two brothers, Nancy (Gerald) Knapp, John Jack (Deb) Gerber and Alan Butch Gerber, all of Eureka, Ill.; one son, Bradley Gerber of Eureka, Ill.; one daughter, Kelly (Martin) Hynes of St. Charles, Ill.; two grandchildren, Stephanie and Christopher Hynes; and many nieces and nephews.
Both parents preceded him in death.
He passed away in his home surrounded by his family.
Family was his top priority, and he will be remembered as a loving, devoted husband, father and grandfather.
Frank found joy in his work. A car enthusiast, he held jobs at Heyl Motor Company, Brubaker Transfer and Eureka Automotive. Due to his highly regarded craftsmanship, Frank's hobby, refinishing furniture, soon became his livelihood at Rosedale Woodworking.
Active in the community, Frank dedicated 33 years to the Eureka Volunteer Fire Protection District and later joined the Central Illinois Fire Investigators Association. Frank served as assistant fire chief, fire chief and trustee to the Eureka Fire District.
A sports fan, he loved bowling, golfing and rooting for the Chicago Cubs. Additionally, Frank rejoiced with the senior Spirit Lifters and was an usher at Eastview Christian Church in Normal. Above all, Frank loved being with people, whether friends or acquaintances. His warm, personable spirit will be cherished and deeply missed.
He was a member of the Eastview Christian Church, where funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 13, 2009. Pastor Jim Smiley will officiate. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2009, at Argo-Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in Eureka and one hour prior to services at his church. Graveside services will be held at 2:30 p.m. at Olio Township Cemetery in Eureka.
Memorial contributions may be made to OSF Hospice, Eastview Christian Church or a charity of the donor's choice.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ruestmanharrisfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Franklin Gerber
3 Entries
Jeffrey Gerber
July 10, 2009
Cornelle and Family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of Frankie Del's passing. Though it has been a long time since Grag and I have been in Eureka, we have many fine memories. May God be with you.
Ken Burrell
July 10, 2009
Frank was one of my first friends in Eureka. My wife Joannie and I want to express our condolences to Cornelle and their family.
Judie Bittner
July 10, 2009
Dear Cornelle and family, Truly I was saddened to hear of Franks passing. He will be missed in and around Eureka. It was always such a pleasure to meet Frank as he was always so interested in each one he met and was so easy to visit with. What a blessing that you could take care of him at home Cornelle. God is indeed good.
We have much to celebrate as he is now praising His Lord without pain and living in untold beauty breathing easily.
You have my very deepest sympathy in these days.
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