Herman J. Gerhardt, Sr., 83, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Sunday, March 17, 2019, at Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.

Herman was born October 19, 1935 in Victoria, Kansas.  He was one of thirteen children born to Michael and Florence (Brungardt) Gerhardt.  He grew up on a farm near Victoria and graduated from Victoria High School.

Herman served his country in the U.S. Army, serving stateside.  After his tour of duty he returned to the Olmitz, Kansas area.

Herman was united in marriage to the love of his life, Cicily Ann Masters on February 20, 1957 in Olmitz.  This union was blessed with five children; Jerry, Herman, Jr., Marvin, Dorothy and Debra.  They made their home in Olmitz, Hoisington and in 1980 they moved to Russell.

Herman worked in the oil field his whole life.  He worked for Ivan Holt Drilling on pulling units.  After his retirement, he enjoyed tinkering on washers and dryers for family and friends.  He also enjoyed listening and dancing to Polka music.

Herman’s surviving family include two daughters, Dorothy Ramirez (Martin) of Pierre, South Dakota and Debra Carillo (David) of Great Bend, Kansas; three sons, Jerald Gerhardt (Patty) of Hays, Kansas, Herman Gerhardt, Jr. (Anita) of Russell, Kansas and Marvin Gerhardt of Great Bend, Kansas; brother, Tony Gerhardt of Liberal, Kansas; sister, Katie Rohr of Hays, Kansas; 19 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

Herman was preceded in death by his parents, wife Cicily, four brothers and five sisters.

Celebration of Herman’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, March 21, 2019 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell.  Burial will follow at the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Russell.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, March 20, 2019 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary.  A Memorial has been established with Wheatland Nursing Center.  Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.