Thomas Gerald Gerdeman's Obituary
Thomas G. Gerdeman, 85, of Columbus Grove, passed away on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at his residence. He was born on December 11, 1939, in Kalida, Ohio, to the late Cornelius and Adelia (Klausing) Gerdeman. He married Mary Bassitt, who survives.
He worked as a truck driver for over 40 years until his retirement in 2008 from Wannemacher Enterprises. He also worked for Otis Wright Trucking, Werner Trucking, Pandora Grain and the Lord's Pantry. He proudly served his country in the US Army. He was a member of Columbus Grove Christian Church and VFW Post 9648, Columbus Grove. Tom was a lifelong fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns. He enjoyed doing yard work and meeting with his friends at Jerry's to solve world problems and discuss sports.
He is also survived by his son, Thomas (Jodi) Gerdeman; daughter, Tamela Emans; stepdaughter, Susan Coffman; stepson, Chad Coffman; 7 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law Jeannine Gerdeman. He was also preceded in death by daughter, Michelle Gerdeman; son-in-law, Jedd Emans; brothers, Donald (Cecelia) Gerdeman and Robert Gerdeman.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 AM Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Columbus Grove Christian Church, 105 S. Broadway Street, Columbus Grove, with visitation from 10:00 - 11:30 AM. Preferred Memorials to Columbus Grove Christian Church, Putnam County Cancer Assistance Program http://pccap.org/ and/or the Lord's Pantry, Columbus Grove. To share online condolences please visit www.hartmanfunerals.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?