Lester F. Gerken

Lester F. Gerken, 73, of Vermilion, died Thursday, April 2, 2015 at Fairview Hospital after a courageous battle with heart disease. He was born April 26, 1941 in Defiance, OH, and had been a Vermilion resident for the past 47 years moving from Ridgeville Corners, OH. Lester graduated from Findlay University and taught math for Ridgeville Corners for 3 years and for Lorain Admiral King for 27 years where he was also a basketball and soccer coach. He was a member of the Lorain Co. Wood Carvers, Sandusky Bay Chapter of the Archaeological Society, and the Vermilion Boat Club. Lester had a passion for all animals and also for woodcarving, especially carving waterfowl. He loved living on Lake Erie and watching the scenery it provided. Lester also enjoyed officiating basketball in Erie and Lorain Co. and spending time with his great nieces and nephews. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Gay (nee Worden) Gerken of Vermilion; brother, LaVerne Gerken of Liberty Center; and sisters, Edith Miller of Henry Co.; Lois (Bill) Creiger of Napoleon, and Elvera Buckmaster of New Carlisle. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Martha (nee Arps) Gerken; sister, Lorna Miller; and infant brother, Dale Gerken. Private family services were held. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Friendship Animal Protective League, 8303 Murray Ridge Rd., Elyria, OH 44035. Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.