Gerald Mathes' Obituary
Gerald Dean Mathes, 85, passed away at the Northeast Missouri Medical Center in Kirksville, MO on Thursday, April 2, 2015. Gerald was born in Graysville, MO on April 30, 1929, the son of George and Gertie (Pickering) Mathes who preceded him in death. He began working in the coal mines around rural Graysville at a young age, and later joined the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Gerald was united in marriage to Deloris McHenry on April 20, 1957. Gerald worked for the John Morrell meat packing company for more than 30 years in Ottumwa, Iowa, and later in St. Louis, MO, while still working their small family farm in Glendale. Gerald enjoyed raising hounds, as well as fox and coyote hunting with his friends and neighbors for many years. His favorite place to be was outdoors: working in the timber cutting firewood, working in the hayfield, and raising livestock. Gerald was always willing to help a family member or neighbor and greatly enjoyed his time visiting with them. He also enjoyed a good meal after a hard day's work and was lucky to have an outstanding cook and baker in his wife Deloris. Gerald is survived by his wife Deloris, son Jon Mathes of Glendale, and son Jeff Mathes of Morrison, Tennessee. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Jon Drew Bruner, Rachel Mathes, Ashley Mairs, and Danielle Mathes. Those who preceded Gerald in death are daughter Susan Mathes; four sisters: Emogene Williams, Pauline Morgan, Valee McElfish, and Icel Wilson; and three brothers: Harold "Tude" Mathes, Ovid "Tub" Mathes, and Ola "Dutch" Mathes. A memorial service will be held at the McCune Cemetery near Livonia, Missouri at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2015 where Gerald's ashes will be interred. Memorials may be given to the family and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfh.com To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Gerald Mathes please visit our Sympathy Store.
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