Raymond D. Gerber

Raymond D. Gerber, 84, of Strasburg died Monday morning, April 18, 2011 in Park Village Health Care Center following a brief illness.

Ray retired in 1989 as a foreman for Ravens Trailer Sales in Strasburg where he worked for 27 years. He had previously worked for Truck Coal, Garver Bros. Store, Garver Bros. Lumber, and Gibbs Coal Mine in Stonecreek.

Born April 12, 1927 in Canton, Ohio, he was the son of the late Dwight and Audrey (Miller) Gerber. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Henrietta "Sue" Gerber.

Ray was a member of the Strasburg United Methodist Church. He was a graduate of Strasburg Frankilin High School Class of 1945 and served as both basketball and football manager. He proudly served in the US Army during World War II. Ray was also a member of the Charles Hofer Post of the American Legion at Strasburg, National Rifle Association and the POA (Ponies of America). He had many interests including gardening and woodworking. He built cradles and rocking donkeys for each of his children's families and created many other pieces that will provide a lasting memory to his family. Over the years, Ray could also often be found at his grandchildren and great grandchildren's school activities.

He will be sadly missed by his wife of 65 years, Janice (Weber) Gerber with whom he married on March 6, 1946. Four children, Don (Fran) Gerber and Londa (Tim) Myers both of Strasburg, John Gerber of New Philadelphia, and Tim (Belinda) Gerber of Hopedale; 12 grandchildren, Tina (Shawn) Loibl, Adam (Melissa) Myers, Karina (Matt) Robbins, Nate (Jamie) Myers, Christopher (Sarah) Myers, Tricia Gerber, Paula (Richard) Porter, Brandi (Ricky) Tanner, Brandy Ray, Tiffany Champion, Timothy Champion, and Amber Williston; 21 great grandchildren, three sisters, Shirley Johns of Lucerne, California, Barbara (Rev. Dean) Roush of Hilliard, and Joan (Dennis) Kroeckel of Tucson, Az and a brother, Russell (Carol) Gerber of Strasburg.

A service celebrating Ray' s life will be held Saturday, April 23. 2011 at 11am in the Strasburg United Methodist Church with Pastor Lynda Masters officiating. Cremation has taken place and interment will be in Grandview Union Cemetery at Strasburg where the Charles Hofer Post of the American Legion will conduct military honors. Friends will be received Saturday from 9-11 am. Those unable to attend or who may wish to express a fond memory of Ray may sign the online guestbook by visiting the "obituaries" link on the funeral home website at www.tolandherzig.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Strasburg United Methodist Church or Carpenter's Cupboard (Food Pantry) of the church at 206 2nd St. N.W., Strasburg, Ohio 44680.

The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory at Strasburg is handling funeral arrangements.

TOLAND-HERZIG STRASBURG
330 343-6132
www.tolandherzig.com