Greg Gerard

4/22/1955 - 4/20/2021

Gregory Lee “Duke” Gerard, 65, of Wataga, died at 2:48 p.m. Tuesday, April 20, 2021 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center, Bloomington.

Duke was born April 22, 1955 in Galesburg, the son of Gilbert and Marguerite (Tietz) Gerard.  Duke graduated from GHS in 1973.  He married Sandra Kay Haneghan on November 4, 2000 in Galesburg.  She survives.  Duke is also survived by one son, Justin (Amanda) Gerard of Clayton, OK; four stepsons, Josh Smith of Midwest City, OK, Mark Smith of Clayton, OK, Greg Bledsoe of Wataga, and Michael Bledsoe of Galesburg; one stepdaughter, Jennifer Knuth of Wataga; and twenty-four grandchildren.  He is also survived by two brothers, Richard (Jeannie) Gerard of Champaign and Jack (Cynthia) Gerard of Pontiac; and one sister, Cheryl Bryner of Kewanee.  Duke was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Ruth Ann Gerard.

Growing up Duke worked for his father at the A&P Grocery in Galesburg.  He went on to work at Bunker Links Golf Course in Galesburg for many years.  He later worked at Wal Mart until his retirement. 

Duke was a fan of all things John Wayne.  He collected model antique automobiles, pipes, coffee mugs, and antique dishes.  He enjoyed making his own walking canes.  Duke also enjoyed watching TV, especially MASH, Svengoolie, Blue Bloods, and 3 Stooges.  He had a great sense of humor and was happiest when he was surrounded by his family, especially his grandchildren.

Visitation will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, face masks, social distancing, and limited occupancy will be enforced.  Cremation will be accorded following services.  Memorials may be made to the family.

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