Frank G. Gerdes

Frank George Gerdes, 75, of Grasmere, died peacefully at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital on Saturday, August 24, 2024, after a 4 month illness. He was the son of the late Mary (nee Mangino) and William Gerdes.

Born and raised in Rosebank, Staten Island, Frank attended the former St. Mary’s School in Rosebank, and graduated from McKee Vocational High School. Frank began his career with Con Edison, immediately following high school. He was hired as a Lineman and progressed to Trouble Shooter before retiring after 36 years of service. In his time with Con Edison, Frank would be dispatched to various cities throughout the country to help restore electrical power to cities affected by natural disasters.

While working for Con Edison, Frank was also a member of the U.S. Army reserves from 1968 and received an honorable discharge in 1973. Frank was an active member of the Sons of Norway and the Grasmere Civic Association. He enjoyed deer hunting every fall in upstate New York with his son.

Frank married the love of his life, Annette Acanfora on June 17, 1972 at Holy Rosary Church and settled in South Beach. They were devoted to each other for over 52 years. They celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in June, 2022 at The Staaten surrounded by family and friends. They moved to Great Kills, where they raised their 2 children, Jessica and Frank Jr. After 18 years in Great Kills, Frank moved his family to Grasmere.

Frank is survived by his wife Annette, his daughter Jessica Lynn, wife of Kenneth Bray, and Frank Jr., his brother William (EllaMae), and predeceased by two sisters, Anna (Abell ) and Irene (McBride). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.