William J. “Bill” Gerding

KALIDA – William J. “Bill” Gerding, 71, of Kalida, passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at University Hospital, Cleveland Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. He was born October 13, 1955, in Lima to the late Felix and Alice (Unverferth) Gerding. On February 4, 1986, he married Debra Rowe, who survives in Kalida.

He is also survived by four children: Ben (Meggan) Gerding of Lakeview, Rick Gerding , Jesse (Casslyn) Gerding, both of Kalida, and Billie Jean (Brandon) Johnson of Findlay; thirteen grandchildren: Bryce (Mara) Gerding, Tori (Kyle) Chamberlain, Jonah (Alisha) Gerding, Bailey (Logan) Kaverman, Carter (Leelynn) Moore, Mason Gerding, Anthony Houston, Chloe Rader, Felix Gerding, Josie Gerding, Remi Gerding, Graham Johnson, and Easton Johnson; six great-grandchildren: Eliana Gerding, Randi Gerding, Benjamin Chamberlain, William Gerding, Emory Moore and Ella Woods; siblings: Jane (Mike) Fortman, Karen (Steve) Osterhage, Shirley (Dave) Buss, Henry (Lois) Gerding, and Sandy (Glen) Recker, all of Kalida.

Bill proudly retired as the third-generation owner and operator of Gerding Ditching, continuing a family legacy built upon generations of hard work. He was a lifetime member of the Kalida Fish & Game Club and the NRA. Bill was also a member of the Michigan Fox Hunters Association. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and houndsman with a deep appreciation for nature and the simple joys of life. He had a true passion for the outdoors, especially spending time running his coyote hounds and hunting for morels. As the owner of The Training Post, Bill took great pride in sharing his knowledge and skills of coyote hunting and hound training. His love for the outdoors went far beyond a hobby; it was a way of life and a passion he enjoyed sharing with others. Above all though, Bill loved his family deeply and was a cherished friend to many.

Funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township with Fr. Phil Smith officiating. Burial will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Kalida. A visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday and again on Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations contributions may be made to The Training Post to support a memorial hunt held in Bill’s honor, celebrating his lifelong passion for coyote hunting and the houndsman tradition.  Proceeds may be sent to The Training Post, PO Box 300, Kalida, Ohio 45853.

Condolences may be expressed at www.loveheitmeyer.com