Gerald E. Steiger

Gerald Edward Steiger, 90, died peacefully Saturday afternoon, October 10, 2026 in the care of his family, SouthernCare Hospice, and Orchard Park Assisted Living where he had resided since 2023.

Gerald was born at home on December 18, 1935 to the late LeRoy “Roy” and Helen (Gifford) Steiger. After attending Holmes-Liberty through 11th grade, he graduated with the Sulphur Springs Class of 1953. He met Ardene Struckman on a double date and they married on June 15, 1957 at Mt. Zion Evangelical United Brethren Church. They shared 67 wonderful years together until she preceded him in death on February 20, 2025.

Gerald will be remembered for his hard work, love for his family, and love for farming. Even as Dementia stole most of his memories, he still talked about farming; especially his appreciation of good soil, level ground, and clean crops. A man of the earth, he loved planting fruits and vegetables almost as much as his fields and ate fruit he grew nearly every morning for breakfast. Gerald also worked in construction, for AEP, Timken, and walked a city mail route until he was in position to farm full time. He and Ardene enjoyed travels to Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, and The Bahamas; often in the company of friends. The family took a trip every summer and also many fishing trips to Bruce Mines, Canada with other families. After the children were grown, Gerald and Ardene camped at Tall Timbers near Lake Erie where they enjoyed boating and fishing.

They wintered many years at Plantation Estates in Fort Myers, Florida. Gerald did not like cold weather and he loved playing euchre with their Florida friends. At home, Gerald kept busy in the fields and maintained and restored farm equipment. His prized Oliver 77 was purchased new by his dad, and Gerald was able to restore it, along with others including DC Case, Silver King, McCormick, and Allis Chalmers tractors. Gerald remembered his father farming with horses and mules until the purchase of the Oliver.

Gerald also enjoyed hunting, visiting his favorite Amish Country spots, playing cards with dear friends, and dining out. A devout Christian, Gerald was a member of Mt. Zion Community Church where he served as a trustee and helped when called upon. Family, neighbors, and the church were in good hands with Gerald nearby as he called on them regularly and saw that their lanes were cleared of snow and odd jobs were taken care of. Gerald served in the National Guard, on the Country Star Board, and he and Ardene were founding members of the Harvey School.

Gerald loved being a grandpa and attending his grandchildren’s events. His smile and chuckle when he told a joke was memorable and will certainly be missed. His love and support never wavered. He enjoyed many family gatherings with extended family often playing games and sharing stories. His visits at Orchard Park with his great grandchildren in recent years were a highlight of his days.

The family also wants to thank the staff at Orchard Park for all their love and care. He was loved like family and was “Paw Paw” to them. Their kindness is very much appreciated.

Gerald is survived by daughter, Paula Dotson (Dave); son, Greg Steiger (Sue); grandchildren, Matt Dotson, Ellen Haldeman (Tyler), Emily Dotson (Matt Dietrich), and Emma Steiger; and great-grandchildren, Luke and Hannah Haldeman. Also surviving are sisters-in-law, Janet Steiger and Mary Jo Black along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to Ardene and his parents, Gerald was preceded in death by his brother, Arthur Steiger; in-laws, Park & Eva Stuckman; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jane & Jerry Hatcher; and brother-in-law, Vincent Black.

All services will be held at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Family will receive friends on Sunday, October 18 from 2-5 pm and the funeral will be held on Monday, October 19 at 10:30 am with Pastor Matt Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are encouraged to be made payable to Mt. Zion Community Church, SouthernCare Hospice, or Harvey School and given at the funeral home. Memories and photos can be shared in the guestbook of Gerald’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.