Helen M. Gerding

OTTAWA - Helen M. Gerding, 89, of Ottawa, passed away at 5:41 p.m., Wednesday, July 12, 2023  at Kindred Hospital, Lima.  She was born October 13, 1933 in Lima to the late Aloysius and Mary (Schroeder) Siefker. On August 7, 1954, she married Joseph B. Gerding, who preceded her in death on October 21, 2001.

Survivors include seven children: Dennis (Shirley) Gerding of Columbus Grove, Allan (Mary Ann) Gerding, Julie (Gilbert) Riepenhoff, Susan (Rick) Erhart, Joann Gerding, all of Ottawa, David (Barbara) Gerding of Delphos and Jeanne (Gary) Zeller of Kalida; a son-in-law, Richard Burkhart of Celina; 13 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; four sisters: Eunice Pohl of Quincy, MI, Joan Peck, Jane Kleman, both of Kalida, and Marie (Ron) Kuhlman of Ottawa; and three sisters-in-law: Cathy Siefker of Ottawa, Marilyn Siefker and Joan Siefker, both of Kalida.

She is also preceded in death by a daughter, Marilyn Burkhart; a grandson, Craig Erhart; and four siblings: Tom Siefker, Daniel Siefker, Carol (Virgil) Ellerbrock and James (Esther) Siefker; and three brothers-in-law: Bernard Pohl, Larry Peck and Earl Kleman.

Helen was a homemaker and seamstress for Gustwiller's in Ottawa. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa. Helen enjoyed quilting, sewing, crafting and farming. She loved spending time with her family and friends.

Funeral Mass will begin 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 17, 2023 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Fr. Tim McFarland officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2 – 7 p.m. on Sunday and one hour prior to the Mass on Monday at LOVE FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa.  A scripture service will be held at 6:50 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

Charity of the donor's choice