Larry Gene Gerken

Larry Gene Gerken, 81, of Antwerp, passed away August 22, 2023 at Paulding County Hospital.

Larry was born on July 25, 1942 in Defiance, Ohio, a son of the late Lavina (Retcher) & Richard Gerken.

Larry graduated from high school in 1960. At the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Army during the Berlin Wall Crisis and proudly served his country. On September 7, 1966, Larry married the love of his life Jeannie. Larry would do anything for Jeannie, and even went as far as building her a double A-frame house himself, of which he would consider his greatest accomplishment. Larry worked at Johns Manville for about 8 years and later retired at the age of 50 from BF Goodrich in 1992. One of Larry's favorite things to do would be to go garage saling or "treasure hunting" for all type of antiques. He also enjoyed fossil hunting, fishing, and taking his family on vacations every summer to many different state parks and locations.

Larry will be sadly missed by his children, Ron (Nicole), Mandi (Jim) Clemens, Kelly Tuttle, & Robb (Pam) Gerken; siblings, Gary (Linda), Darlene (Alan), Marilyn (the late Richard), & Randy (Sally); 14 grandchildren; & 12 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Jean "Jeannie" Gerken, who passed away January 10, 2014.

Service is Friday, August 25, 2023 at 10:30 AM at the Antwerp Global Methodist Church, 202 E River St., Antwerp, Ohio 45813, with viewing one hour prior.

He will be laid to rest in Bethel Cemetery, Cecil, with military honors.

Memorials are to the Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com.

Flowers and other tributes may be delivered to the Antwerp Global Methodist Church on Friday from 8-9 AM