Donald D. Gericke's Obituary
Donald D. Gericke, 94, of Smithton, IL passed away on February 27, 2026. He was born on March 20, 1931, in Highland, IL.
On February 16, 1952, he married Nadine S. (nee Diehl) Gericke, and together they shared many cherished years. Early in his working career, Don was a meat cutter and operated Diehl’s Market, the family store in Columbia, IL. In his late thirties, he made the decision to return to college and earn his degree in education. From then on, Don devoted much of his life to education and athletics, serving for many years as a teacher and coach at Dupo High School. He was also an active member of the Loyal Order of the Moose – Chapter 1221, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and St. Paul United Church of Christ in Columbia, IL.
In retirement, Don and Nadine built a home and moved to Lake of the Ozarks where they took pleasure hosting family and friends for many years. Upon moving back to the area they settled in Smithton and enjoyed helping at church, wintering at South Padre Island, playing golf, tending to their garden, attending the grandchildren’s school activities and sporting events as well as cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals.
He is survived by his loving wife, Nadine; his sons, Curt (Sherri) Gericke of Freeburg, IL and Eric (Betty) Gericke of Belleville, IL; his grandchildren, Garrett (Jessica) Gericke, Drew (Chelsey) Gericke, Jessica (Tyler) Davitz, Lindsey (Logan) Nesseth, and Evan (Alexandra) Gericke; and his great-grandchildren, Brynn, Tenley, Tyce, Cambry, Quinn, Fayth, Stella, Cecelia, Evelyn, and Oliver. He is also survived by other dear relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil E. and Erna (nee Buehler) Gericke, and his brother, Virgil (Kaye) Gericke.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Columbia IL, with memorial services beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Pastor Jonathan Bangera will officiate.
In lieu of customary remembrances, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 4400 Clayton Ave. St. Louis MO 63110, Hoyleton Youth and Family Services, 8 Executive Dr. Ste. 200 Fairview Heights IL 62208, St. Paul United Church of Christ, 127 N St. Paul St. Columbia IL 62236, Hospice of Southern Illinois, 305 S. Illinois St. Belleville IL 62220, or Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation, 3800 Park Ave. St. Louis MO 63110. Arrangements are being handled by Leesman Funeral Home.
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