Chris Gerke, 51, of Rake, died on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at his aunt’s farm in Thompson.
Chris was born on March 28, 1975 in Iowa City, to Dennis and Hazel “Ann” Spaulding Gerke.
He was a 1993 graduate of Waverly High School.
He married Melanie Karr and they later separated.
Chris served in the United States Navy, 1997 to 2005 as a diesel mechanic and received an honorable discharge.
Chris enjoyed playing the guitar.
He is survived by his adoptive father, Dennis Gerke of Waterloo‚ mother, Hazel “Ann” Gerke of Shell Rock‚3 half brothers, 2 half sisters and numerous cousins, aunts and uncles.
Chris is preceded in death by his grandparents, step father, Ralph Ackerman and birth father Joseph Arthur Long.
Memorial Services: 10:00 AM on Friday, September 25, 2026 at Locke on 4th, Waterloo with inurnment in Waterloo Memorial Park Cemetery. Military rites by the United States Navy and Waterloo American Legion.
Memorials may be directed to the family.
Arrangements by Locke on 4th, Waterloo, IA. Condolences may be left at www.LockeFuneralServices.com
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