Roy Nicholas "Nick" Gerdel III

Roy Nicholas "Nick" Gerdel III, formerly of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away February 5, 2026, in Keokuk, IA, at age 66. Roy was born on September 22, 1959, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Shirley (nee Gerstner) and Roy N. Gerdel Jr., who have preceded him in death. Nick was the beloved brother of Sandy (Jeff) Gilfillan, Karen (Rick) Schneider, and Beth (Matt) Johnson; cherished uncle of Liz Schneider, Katie (Tyler) Lewis, Lauren (Dustin) Rios, Michael Johnson, Maria (Nick) Herrin, and Caroline (J.D.) Allen; and dear great uncle of four. Nick was a simple man with a small circle and a big heart. He had two lifelong friends who were more like brothers than buddies—friends he'd known since kindergarten. Together they grew up in Boy Scouts, playing baseball, fishing, camping, and hiking, always happiest outdoors and especially in the mountains of Colorado. Those shared adventures and quiet bonds meant everything to him. Nick worked as a surveyor, first in Alexandria, Virginia, then he moved to Poulsbo, Washington, where the job was as rugged as he was—sometimes requiring a machete just to cut through the brush and trees. Although he respected the work, his love of the mountains call him back to Colorado. There, Nick felt most like himself. He loved nature deeply and felt most at peace outdoors. Nick was famously stubborn, a trait that often drove his family a little crazy—but it came with passion and conviction. He loved a good argument, especially if it meant making sure everyone knew he was right. Beneath that stubborn streak, though, was a deeply caring man. He was a devoted and loving uncle who cherished time spent with his nieces and nephews. He had a dry sense of humor and a love for classic comedy, especially The Three Stooges and the Marx Brothers. He was also a loyal St. Louis sports fan, cheering faithfully for the Blues and the Cardinals. Music was another constant in his life—classic rock filled his world, with favorites including Led Zeppelin, the Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pure Prairie League, and Phish. Nick lived life on his own terms, valuing loyalty, nature, and the simple joys that truly mattered to him. He will be remembered for his stubborn honesty, quiet kindness, love of the outdoors, and the deep connections he held with those lucky enough to be part of his small but meaningful circle.

Roy Nicholas "Nick" Gerdel III

September 22, 1959 - February 5, 2026