Robert Gerig

1962 - 2014

Robert Lee "Rob" Gerig

June 14, 1962 - September 25, 2014

Rob passed from this world to the next, September 25, 2014, at his home in Silverton, Oregon with his beloved wife, Karen at his side.

Robert Lee "Rob" Gerig was born June 14, 1962, to Robert and Marlene Gerig in Salem, Oregon. He lived his entire life in the Salem-Silverton area except for the time he served on active duty with the United States Marine Corps Reserve. He attended Central Howell Grade School and Silverton High School.

After high school Rob joined the Marine Corps Reserves and served active duty time at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, California, Marine Aviation Training Support Group, Meridian, Mississippi, and 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, Naval Air Station Whidhey Island, Oak Harbor, Washington serving as an Aviation Operations Specialist.

Upon returning home in 1981 Rob joined Marion County Fire District #1 serving 22 plus years as a Volunteer Firefighter, working his way up in rank from Firefighter to Lieutenant at the Pratum Station. He served several terms as President of the Volunteers Association and received the honor of Firefighter of the Year in 1991. A move to Silverton forced him to resign his position with the Fire Department which was a difficult decision for him to make.

Most of his working career was spent at Specialty Polymers in Woodburn, Oregon as a Reactor Operator. Prior to that he worked for TCB Construction.

Rob loved singing Karaoke, (especially his "Man of Constant Sorrow" routine), camping, crabbing, Las Vegas, family activities, attending sporting events, and a special passion for decorating his residence for Halloween and Christmas.

Rob is survived by his wife, Karen, daughters, Jessica (Aaron) Reese, Caitlyn (Joe) Sandver, stepdaughter, Melissa (Brandon) Staiger, stepsons, Jason Staiger, and Josh (Samantha) Staiger. Also surviving are parents, Robert and Marlene Gerig, sister, Linda (Tom) Merrill, brothers, Michael (Linda), Larry (Julie), six grandchildren, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and nephews.

What can you say about a man like Rob. A letter received from a Silverton resident probably summed it all up and I quote: "He was a gift to this world. He was always there to help others in need. He would have been a terrific asset to the City of Silverton as a member of the City Council. There is a huge void where his silly and contagious humor was. He will be missed by so many in so many ways."

In lieu of flowers it is suggested that a donation be made to Marion County Fire District #1 Volunteer Association, 300 Cordon Rd. N.E. Salem, Oregon 97301. Donations will be used for purchasing food and toys for their Christmas Toy and Joy Program which was on of Rob's favorite projects while serving as a Volunteer.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Oktoberfest Building in Mt. Angel, Friday, October 10th from 5p.m. to 10 p.m. There will be a short service that will begin at 5:30 p.m.

The family would like to offer a special thanks to Dr. Natasha Tiffany, Dr. Alison Skalet and Gentiva Hospice for kindness and loving care given to Rob and our family in this trying time.

Arrangements by Unger Funeral Chapel, Silverton.