William Gerringer

Bill was born in Sugar City, Colorado. He was the last surviving child of August Gerringer and his wife Katherine (Katie Fleming). Both were Germans from Russia. He had two brothers Gus and Al and five sisters, Mary Bouton, Mollie Rohrig, Frieda Chapman, Bertha Michelson, and Elsie Cline. Bill came to Fresno in 1935. His sister Bertha introduced him to Bettie Simmons at the German-American Pentecostal Mission, and they were married there in Fresno on September 19, 1937. Papa was alway an industrious multi-talented worker. He worked hard all his life and became self-employed as a metal welder and fabricator, diesel mechanic, and even built his own homes and playhouses for his grandchildren. Papa and Nana enjoyed camping for many years at Bass Lake in their motorhome. Papa loved to hear Pastor G.L. Johnson preach at People's Church. Bettie and Bill enjoyed their membership there for 29 years. They were even baptized in the Jordan River on one of their trips to the Holy land with the active adults church group. Many thanks to everyone at Pacific Gardens for Papa's love and care the last four years and Optimal Hospice. He is surivived by his devoted loving wife of 73 years Bettie; son, Bill D. Gerringer and his wife Cindy and children Cindy Lee and Bill R.; his daughter, Gaileen Scritchfield and children, Mark Scritchfield and Jill Nichols. A Graveside Service will be held at Belmont Memorial Park on Monday, March 7, 2011, at 10:30 a.m. Remembrances may be made to People's Church. STEPHENS & BEAN CHAPEL 202 N Teilman Ave Fresno (559)268-9292 stephensandbean.com Published