Gerald C. Gatten

Gerald C. Gatten, 78 years of age and a resident of Amherst, passed away at his home on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. He was born February 15, 1947, in Martins Ferry, Ohio. Gerald was a 1965 graduate of Amherst Steele High School and went on to earn his degree in English from Valparaiso University in 1973. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1969, where he was deployed in infantry in Vietnam. For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded two Purple Hearts. Following his military service, Gerald built a long and successful career as an insurance agent with State Farm Insurance Agency, where he worked for 42 years. Beyond his professional life, he remained a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Amherst. His passion for mentoring young people was evident in his years of coaching football, beginning with CYO in Sheffield Village and continuing at Amherst High School and Elyria Catholic. Gerald cherished time spent with his colleagues from State Farm at their weekly luncheons and found great joy on the golf course, sharing many rounds with family and friends in local leagues. He loved traveling with his wife Barbara across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest pride was his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 52 years, Barbara (née Romer); his children, Jon (Laurie) Gatten of North Ridgeville, Matthew Gatten and Stephen Gatten both of Amherst; and his treasured grandchildren, Rachel, Kadin, and Riley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Marie Gatten (Nee:Lorandos); and his brother, Dennis Gatten. Family and friends may call on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hempel Funeral Home, Amherst. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 200 St. Joseph Drive, Amherst. The Reverend Fr. Timothy O'Connor will officiate. Rebroadcasting of services will be available at www.hempelfuneralhome.com. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Valor Home, 221 W 21st. Street Lorain, Ohio 44052, honoring Gerald's service and his enduring commitment to fellow veterans. For those unable to attend please visit the funeral home's website to share a memory and sign the guest register, www.hempelfuneralhome.com.