Gerald Tedrow

GERALD GUY TEDROW

Batavia

Gerald Guy Tedrow, 81, of Batavia, passed away at home on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2019, after a long battle with several serious health issues.

Gerald was born Aug. 26, 1937, in Van Buren County, Iowa, to Rayburn Joseph and Vermith Faye Ferrel Tedrow. He married Patricia Palmer on Nov. 17, 1962. She preceded him in death on June 7, 2009, after 47 years of marriage.

A 1955 graduate of Birmingham High School, Gerald enjoyed growing up on the farm and was proud of his grandparents and his Van Buren County roots.

Gerald served eight years with the Iowa Army National Guard in Fairfield. He drove a milk truck in early years and then was an over-the-road truck driver for several decades along with helping his father-in-law. He later was assistant manager for Orschlen in Fairfield, along with farm help for Russell Davis and John Davidson.

After retiring, Gerald's passion was gardening and canning along with his wife, until her health declined in 2004. He also enjoyed mowing.

The last few years he enjoyed watching RFD TV, tractor auctions and any farming or tractor show. He was an avid John Deere lover. He also faithfully watched "General Hospital" daily. Gerald was a NASCAR fan with Rusty Wallace and Tony Stewart his favorite drivers. He especially liked local racing.

Gerald put others first and never knew a stranger. His most proud accomplishment was his family, he was a very proud husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was truly a wonderful strong man and he leaves a huge void in his family's lives and hearts.

Gerald is survived by three children, Jeff (Deborah) Tedrow of Keosauqua, Lisa (Mike) Cline of Fairfield and Cindy Tedrow (Steve Brinegar) of Batavia; four grandchildren, Royce (Crystal) Mallinger, Dustin (Aimee) Mallinger, Travis (Lindsy) Tedrow and Chelsey (Brandin) Bromell; seven great-grandchildren, Cassidy, Ryker, Andrew, Alexis, Calyssa, Ava and Bentley and one to be born in May 2020; and Cindy's terrier, Dante, whom he dearly loved.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Reece Funeral Home in Ottumwa with Pastor David Albert officiating. Military services will be conducted by O.B. Nelson Post No. 3 American Legion and Walter B. Schafer Post No. 775 Veterans of Foreign Wars. Burial will be in the Wellman Cemetery in Wellman. Visitation begins at 11 a.m. Wednesday with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Memorials may be made to the family.