Gernert F. Ames

Gernert F. Ames, age 74, of East Dubuque, IL, formerly of Potosi, WI, died Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at Manor Care of Dubuque, IA. He was born on August 26, 1934, the son of Bert and Gertrude (Fecht) Ames in Detroit, MI. Gernert graduated from Potosi High School in 1952. He was united in marriage to Phyllis Maul on July 29, 1972. Gernert worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 34 years repairing tractors. He was also a real estate agent for McIntyre Realty and volunteered with the Potosi Fire Department for many years.

Gernert was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in East Dubuque and served as president of the congregation. He was also an avid Cubs fan and enjoyed camping. Gernert especially cherished his family.

Gernert is survived by nine children: Randy Ames, Waukesha, WI, Deborah (Joel) Sommerfeldt, Merrill, WI, Vickie (Tim) Redington, Monticello, MN, Celeste (Greg) Steiner, Potosi, WI, Michelle (John) Armstrong, East Dubuque, IL, Michael (Belinda) Ames, Kokomo, IL, John (Julie) Vocke, Sheffield, IL, Tammy (Mike) Serdynski, Muskego, WI and Gernert P. (special friend, Mandy Jo) Ames, Dodgeville, WI; 29 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his wife, Phyllis Ames, East Dubuque, IL; three brothers: Udell (Toddy) and Don (Cleone) Ames, both of Potosi, WI and Roger (Rita) Ames, Prairie du Chien, WI; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Jacqueline and a granddaughter, Bianca Laura.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 6, 2009 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (1755 Delhi St.) in Dubuque with the Pastor Arnold Flater officiating. Burial was held in St. Thomas Cemetery, Potosi Township, WI. Family and friends were welcome from 3:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 5, 2009 at Martin Funeral Home in Potosi, WI and from 9:45 until 10:45 a.m. Monday at the church.

In lieu of flowers and plants, a Gernert F. Ames Memorial Fund has been established.

The Ames family would like to thank the Hospice of Dubuque and the Manor Care Staff. A special thank you to the select many at Manor Care for the exceptional care you gave our dad; you know who you are.