----Source: LOYAL TRIBUNE (Loyal, Clark County, Wis.) 10/16/1919

Gerdes, John (17 MAR 1859 - 5 OCT 1919)

J. B. Gerdes, aged 60 years, died at his home at Spokeville, Clark County, Wis. at 11 o'clock Sunday morning Oct. 5, 1919.

John Bernard Gerdes was born in Altenberg, Germany, March 17, 1859. He came to America with his parents in 1871 and settled in Ohio, where he lived until he reached the age of 25 years. At that time he accepted a position as agent of the Wis. Central R. R. and made his home at Custer, Wis.

His marriage to Miss Lena Breitenstein occurred in Stevens point two years later. They came to Loyal to reside in 1905 and lived here until 1909. Mr. Gerdes had charge of the depot at this place during that time. Since that time the family has lived at Spokeville, where Mr. Gerdes has owned and operated a general store.

He was a man that had the respect of everyone in the community so that his death is regretted by all.

The deceased is survived by his wife, two sons, Arthur F. of Marshfield, Carl C. of Spokeville, two brothers, George of McClure, Ohio and Fred of Toledo, Ohio, besides a large number of friends.

The remains were taken to Custer, Wis. Wednesday, where the funeral was held at 11 o'clock at St. Mary's Catholic Church, burial was in the Custer Cemetery.