Charles Joseph Gerst, Sr.

Charles Joseph Gerst, Sr., passed away peacefully at his home in St. Peters, MO, on April 15th, 2023. Cancer took his life at the age of 93. His lovely wife of 39 years, Ida, was at his side. As were his children, one of his granddaughters held his hand for the last hour of his life. Chuck lived long enough after the cancer diagnosis to say goodbye to family and friends, with whom he shared a mutual love. It was a gift many don’t have; there were many prayers. 

Chuck was born on December 13th, 1929, to Cleophas and Clara Gerst. He was raised on a farm during The Great Depression. The family was very poor, he learned the value of hard work at an early age. He was picking cotton in the fields with the family at the age of 10. In 1945, the family moved to St. Louis, in search of economic opportunities. 

At the outbreak of the Korean War, Chuck enlisted in the United States Navy. He served America proudly and was a lifetime member of VFW Post 5077. He served as Commander for two of those years. After Chuck came home from the war, he became a Union Carpenter. He used his skill at work and at home. He could take a dilapidated piece of furniture and turn it into a masterpiece.  

Chuck was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed the fresh air. His two main focuses in life were his relationship with God and his relationship with his family. Chuck and Ida were avidly into the antiquing business; they actually owned antique stores along the way. They shared their expertise with others and thoroughly enjoyed it.  

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Ida (Dodd) Gerst; his sister, Doris Leonard; his children, Charles (Betty) Gerst, Jr., Carol Stocklin and Michael (Janet) Gerst; his stepchildren Gail (Brian) Vance, Roberta (Danny) Sabrio, Dennis Whelchel, and Wally (Renee) Whelchel; eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; eleven step-grandchildren, three great-step-grandchildren and 2 great-great-step-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved him dearly.  

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Cleophas and Clara (Terbrock) Gerst; his brother, Glenn Gerst; his sisters Bernice McKinney, Norma Allman and Leona Crites. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Missions Fund at the Grace Baptist Church. It is a fund that Chuck and Ida supported for years. 

Please feel free to share any memories or special messages on the links that Baue has provided for us. The family thanks everyone for all the support provided for Chuck at this tough time. It made life easier for all and we really appreciate it. We would be honored to see anyone who wants to come to pay their last respects.