Benjamin Edward Gerdes Sr.

Ben is survived by his wife Dianne Gerdes, Daughter Charity Gailey and Fiancee Kevin Kinzie, Son Ben Gerdes Jr and wife Kristy Gerdes, Grandsons Hunter Kinzie, Rowdy Gailey and Klayten Gerdes and Granddaughter Montana Reis. Ben was the 10th child of 11 siblings and leaves behind numerous brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by father Roger Frances Gerdes, Mother Mildred Irene Sullivan Gerdes of Sinton, TX and Sister Nadalene Gerdes Guthridge of Cleburn, TX.

Ben was born on October 2, 1951 in Sinton, TX to Roger & Mildred Gerdes. He graduated from San Jacinto College with an AS degree in Electrical & Instrumentation. He married Dianne, the love of his life in 1974 in Sinton, TX. After moving to Shoreacres, Ben began working for Marathon Pipeline Petroleum as a Sr. I&E Technician. The couple welcomed two children into their home, Charity and Ben Jr. His children remember him as a devote Catholic, husband and father who encouraged them to pursue their goals and dreams.

Ben was very accomplished at working with his hands. He loved to tinker in his garage and building various wood projects was one of his favorite past times. He loved to cook with his friends and family, enjoyed the outdoors and loved being a part of his Church and working with his fellow Knights of Columbus brothers. Ben was fun loving, witty and usually enjoyed being the center of attention; he was quick with a joke and usually had a smile on his face. He was always up for a good challenge at washers or there to engage in a serious conversation about life. Most importantly, Ben loved God and spent every day giving him Thanks and Praise.

There will be a Rosary on Thursday March 8, 2018 at 6 pm at Grand View Funeral Home and Memorial Park. The funeral will be held Friday March 9, 2018 at 2 pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in La Porte, with a reception to follow after grave side service. Father Castro will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ben’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Wounded Warriors or any Cancer Charity of your choice in his memory..