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Joseph Gernhardt Obituary
The family moved to California in 1956. Joe attended St. Francis School, Sonoma Valley High School, class of '61, and SRJC. Joe started his own business, Empire Roofing, in Santa Rosa, a honest and respected hardworking man. He loved traveling with grandsons, family and friends, pickle ball, telling the latest jokes and recounting family stories. After retirement, Joe made and sold wine-barrel furniture and having interesting conservations wherever he went. Joe loved California - but Michigan was always 'home'.
Joe is survived by his children, Otis (Misti) Camotta, Aaron, Amanda, grandsons Evan, Anthony and the mother of his children, Lucy; brothers, Owen (Blanca), Kim (Kim Everson) and Brian John; sisters, Anne (Mike) Cox, Susan Campagna, Melinda Beasley and numerous Californian nieces, nephews, cousins as well as Geiger aunts, uncles and cousins in Michigan, Maryland and Vermont.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, his son, Nicholas, brothers, Steven, Michael, sisters, Gabrielle and Gail (Alan) Jacobsen. Joe's body was cremated and ashes will be scattered. A family and friends Celebration of Life will be celebrated in the of summer 2026.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Gernhardt
Sponsored by Mountain Vista Chapel.
ERIN LEONARD
November 21, 2025
I did not know Joe but I've enjoyed knowing his sons Otis and Aaron, and their mother Lucy. My condolences and love to all of you.
Selma Vandermade
October 14, 2025
I knew Joseph from the SR Moose Lodge. He loved playing Shuffleboard and was very good at our Trivia games. He donated his wine barrel tables and other items to the Moose Lodge to raffle off and to use as Bingo prices. He will be missed. Rest in Peace.
Kathy Kerst
October 12, 2025
I posted Joe's obituary on our Santa Rosa pickleball Facebook pages. There have been many loving comments made about Joe. To read them, join the Sonoma County Pickleball Club and the Wine Country Premier Facebook pages.
Verna Petersen
October 12, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the family. May Joe rest in peace.
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Kathy Kerst
October 12, 2025
Ah, dear Joe. What a fun and clever man. I enjoyed knowing him for many years, playing pickleball. I loved his sense of humor and spirit.
Maureen E. Geiger
October 9, 2025
Loved Joe, always had a smile on his face and a story to share. He will be missed. <3
Tom Geiger
October 9, 2025
Very sad to hear... Let us know when and where the celebration of life will be held.
Kim X Gernhardt
October 8, 2025
Joe was my older brother yes. He was my Hero, and a good friend. I´ll miss Him for sure.
owen f gernhardt
October 8, 2025
he was my BIG brother and I will miss him
REST IN PEACE JOE
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