George Fredrick “Gerry” Elliott, 75, of Hiawatha, died Wednesday morning, August 16, 2017, at home surrounded by his family.

Gerry, how he was known to family and friends, was born May 1, 1942, at Hiawatha, one of two children of Fred and Lyle Hegenderfer Martin and had lived in Hiawatha nearly all of his life.  He grew up in Hiawatha where he attended schools, graduating Hiawatha High School with the class of 1960.  Gerry attended and earned a BSE degree from Emporia State Teachers College. 

He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict where he received the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal, and served with the 9th Infantry Division, discharged at the rank of Specialist E5.  He finished his military service with the Kansas Army National Guard in 1970.  After returning from Vietnam, he secured a teaching position in Bonner Springs. 

He spent 45 years working as an electrician before retiring a couple years ago.  Gerry enjoyed doing electrical work with his grandfather F.H. Hegenderfer.  Among the many things they built were the magazine racks for Morrill Free Public Library, Hiawatha.

Gerry was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church of Hiawatha.  He enjoyed being in the outdoors, including hunting and fishing.

He married Hallie Pride, October 3, 1998, at Bonner Springs, KS.  She survives of the home.
Also surviving are his children Marcy Elliott of Hiawatha, her daughter Brittany Johnson, granddaughter Arya Johnson; Misty (Elliott) Stewart of Florida; step-sons Donald Wooddell and Franklin Wooddell, both of Hiawatha; 10 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.
Gerry was preceded in death by his parents; sister and brother in law Diane and Jim Eichelberger.

A Celebration of Gerry’s life is planned for 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 23, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha, with Pastor Rich Lehmkuhl officiating.  Inurnment will be at a later date at Wolf River Cemetery #3, near Everest.

The family will meet with friends one hour prior to service Wednesday.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Gerry Elliott Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com