Gerald H. Erpelding, 80, of Hutchinson passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, October 24, 2025, 11 a.m. at St. Anastasia Catholic Church in Hutchinson with interment in Oakland Cemetery in Hutchinson.
 Clergy Officiating: Father Paul Wolf; Pianist: Bev Wangerin; Song Leader: Bobbi Ludewig; Music Selection: “Here I Am, Lord”, “Shepherd Me, O God”, “Be Not Afraid”, “On Eagle’s Wings”, “Song of Farewell”, “How Great Thou Art”; Urn Bearer: Logan Erpelding, Lauryn Erpelding, Kess Fennell, Kira Sabin, Sofie Fennell
 Gerald Henry Erpelding was born on September 30, 1945, in St. Cloud. He was the son of George and Clara (Schneider) Erpelding. Gerald was baptized as an infant and later confirmed in his faith as a youth. He received his education in Eden Valley and was a graduate of Eden Valley High School, class of 1964.
 Gerald entered active military service in the United States Air Force on October 27, 1964, and served his country during Vietnam. He received an honorable discharge on October 4, 1968, at Forbes Air Force Base, Kan., and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant.
 Gerald made his home in Hutchinson. He was blessed with two children, Scott and Sara.
 Gerald was employed at 3M in Hutchinson for 33 ½ years before his retirement on February 1, 2003. He was a member of St. Anastasia Catholic Church in Hutchinson. Gerald was also a member of American Legions Post 96 and participated in Meals on Wheels for many years.
 Gerald enjoyed the simple pleasures in life: reading, watching TV and listening to the radio. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren and great-granddaughter, Lilah.
 Blessed be his memory.
 Gerald is survived by his son, Scott Erpelding and his wife Nellie of Brownton; daughter, Sara Bauer and her husband Steven of Hutchinson; grandchildren, Logan (Marissa) Erpelding, Lauryn Erpelding, Kess Fennell, Kira (Greyley) Sabin, Sofie Fennell; great-granddaughter, Lilah Erpelding; sister, Janet Brown of Robbinsdale; many other relatives and friends.
 Gerald is preceded in death by his parents, George and Clara Erpelding; sister, Rose Fink; brothers, Richard Erpelding, Daniel Erpelding.
 Arrangements by Dobratz-Hantge Funeral Chapel in Hutchinson. Online obituaries and guestbook available at www.hantge.com.