Rick Gerding

Richard “Rick” Charles Gerding, Jr., 65, of Maumee, passed away on Thursday, September 1, 2022. He was born in Toledo to Richard, Sr., and Patricia (Nestich) Gerding on September 23, 1956. Rick was a talented hockey player who excelled at a young age. He graduated from Bowsher High School, where he helped lead his team to three city championships and led the league in scoring his senior year with 50 points. He was also named to the Northwest Ohio High School Hockey All-Star League three times. Afterwards, Rick went on to assist his teams of the Jr. Golddiggers and the Toledo Fire semi-pro league. His talents were not only in hockey, but as a drummer. Rick started playing drums at the age of eight and played with various bands in the Toledo area. Rick also loved his sports teams, consisting of the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, OSU Buckeyes, and especially the Los Angeles Rams.

Rick started his career in 1977 at Fiske Brothers as a general laborer and worked his way up to Quality Control Lab Supervisor. He also served as Union Steward and LPF operator over the years.

Family was everything to Rick; his son and grandson being his pride and joy. He enjoyed traveling with his beloved fiancé of six years, Leslie, and spending time with his hero, his mother. Everyone who knew Rick was aware that being his friend meant for life; especially those high school friends he still gathered with every year for their annual Hogbuster. His selfless personality and genuine care charmed everyone he met.

Rick is survived by his mother, Patrica Gerding; son, Ricky (Katelyn) Gerding, III; grandson, Cooper Gerding; fiancé, Leslie Bialecki; sister, Sherri Haupricht; nieces, Shawna (Jeff) Valiton, Trisha (Ben) Wolkins, Deanna (Dan) Schad; many cousins; great-nephews; great-nieces; and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his father, and brother-in-law, David Haupricht.

Friends will be received on Saturday, September 10, 2022, beginning at 2 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, OH 43623 (419-841-2422), where a Sharing of Memories Service will take place at 7 p.m. Inurnment will be private at Resurrection Cemetery. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Rick’s name are asked to consider the American Heart Association. The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses of University of Toledo Medical Center for their dedicated care and compassion. Rick will never be replaced in the hearts of his family, especially his grandson, Cooper, whom he adored.