Richard Carl Gerken

Richard Carl Gerken, age 76, of Fort Wayne, Indiana passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024. He was born on January 8, 1948 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late August and Avis (née Spoerri) Gerken; the third of nine children.

Richard passed peacefully at his home on West Wayne Street in the historical West Central Neighborhood, which he called home for the adult years he lived in Ft. Wayne while raising his daughter Wilhelmina, now living in New York City.

He spent a large part of his life working as a model from the 1970's to 1990's, taking him first to Chicago, then New York, Los Angeles, and finally Europe.

He was a lifelong supporter of the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Browns. Always ready for adventure, he was extremely passionate about all aspects of art and culture including music, food and wine, art and architecture, fashion, movies, and travel. He never failed to bond over what he loved with his daughter over their long phone calls.

He cherished being surrounded by his large family including his siblings, his daughter's mother, Theresa, extended family and his beloved daughter. While he lived many lives, his chief love was being a protective, devoted, generous, gentle, and loving father. The love he carried for his daughter ran deep and their distinct bond never wavered throughout their lives.

He is survived by his daughter, Wilhelmina Gerken; sisters, Marie Tidrich and Elizabeth McClain; and his brothers, Paul Gerken, Jonathan Gerken, David Gerken, Mark Gerken, Jeff Gerken, and Peter Gerken.

Funeral service is 2:00 pm Sunday, October 13, at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Covington Knolls, 8325 Covington Road with calling ninety minutes prior. Interment at Lindenwood Cemetery, Fort Wayne.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Gerken family.