Arthur Gehrman

Arthur B. “Ike” Gehrman , age  89,  To announce the passing of our loved one from this brief earthly life to eternal and everlasting life. Ike will forever be known as a good man; a big man with a big smile and a big heart. Countless friends and loved ones mourn his passing and celebrate his life. Born Jan 8, 1926 in Almena, Wisconsin to George and Anna Gehrman, one-year-old Arthur plus five siblings moved east to settle in Michigan, where his family found work. Attendance through Battle Creek schools was followed by military service as a PFC in the Army Air Corps from 1944-1945. He joined the IBEW Local 445 and became a successful construction electrician. His marriage to Edith “Edie” Parris in 1946 was a happy union with four children born to them. Several years following Edith’s passing, a move westward to Colorado spawned the creation of a successful business in Steamboat Springs: Gehrman Construction, Inc. After his retirement and relocation to Battle Creek in 1994, Ike and longtime friend, Mary Lou Stanton became inseparable life-companions. They travelled extensively, having fun meeting new people in new places, and cherishing every blessed day of their quiet life together on Bristol Lake. Ike was an avid fisherman, hunter and lover of all animals and nature. He respected God’s creation, was well-read, and coveted knowledge. His best moments were those when surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories, experiences and contagious laughter. Ike was a Founding Member of Redemption Lutheran Church, and Chairman of the Congregation for numerous years. Throughout his life he remained active in the church and strong in his faith. He was an active member of the Bedford Area Lions Club and took great pleasure while participating in the philanthropic activities and events sponsored by the organization.  Ike is preceded in death by his parents George and Anna  Gehrman, his brothers  Lloyd ( Ann), Kenneth ( Eleanor), Roland, (Phyllis), Rynilda, (Lionel), Mayonne, (Marvin), and his wife Edith (Parris) Gehrman.  He is survived by his four children, Sally, Susan, Jodie, Mark, as well as two adopted sons, Doug and Dan Love, ten grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.   He is also survived by his loving companion, Mary Lou, as well as her children, Sue Ann Diamond, Chuck Durham, Sally Dowding  and families. The loving affection of our dear father and friend will forever be cherished and sorely missed. Even a long life seems short.  A visitation is scheduled at Richard A Henry Funeral Home on Friday from 4 to 7:00 p.m.  We invite those who would enjoy celebrating Ike’s life, to attend a community gathering with reception following at Redemption Lutheran Church on Saturday, February 21, 2015 at 10:30 a.m.  Please come with fond memories that will toast our hero. Ike will find his resting place at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to interests that Ike enthusiastically supported: Bedford Area Lions Club; The Humane Society; Redemption Lutheran Church.  www.henryfuneralhome.org

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