Paul John Gerhard

     Paul John Gerhard Jr., of Edna, Texas, passed away on to his rest and reward on Saturday, March 25, 2023. Paul was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

     Paul was born in Deutschburg, Texas, to Paul J. Gerhard and Anna Marie (Eloge) Gerhard on December 24, 1930. He was the only son with six sisters. 

     Paul often told stories of growing up in the country milking cows, cutting and baling hay with his dad, and fishing from his jon boat.

     After graduating from Palacios High School, Paul was employed by Alcoa Aluminum. With the outbreak of the Korean conflict, Paul made the decision to serve his country and enlisted in the US Air Force, where he was assigned to a B52 squadron-traveling as far as North Africa. When he finally made it home from his tour, Paul said he “got off the plane and kissed the ground.” After his discharge from the Air Force, Paul attended Texas A&M in Kingsville and the University of Houston. He frequently hitch-hiked back home to Deutschberg to visit his family.

     Paul was blessed with three children-Laura (and husband Kenneth), Karen (and husband Bob), son Gary, and daughter-in-law, Julie. He enjoyed spending time with his five grandchildren-Nicholas, Marissa, Miranda, Kenny, and Felicia. He had five great grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

     Paul married Frankie Jones on December 26, 1967. Together they opened a successful real estate office while living in Houston. Paul and Frankie were licensed real estate brokers and appraisers. In 1983, Paul andFrankie built a beautiful home in Vienna, Tx. They enjoyed many years of raising cattle, feeding birds and deer, and living the best country life. They had a faithful dog, DG, and several spoiled cats.

     Paul and Frankie retired from the real estate business in 1995. Several years later, in 2005, Paul and Frankie made the decision to move and build a home in Edna. Paul was a faithful member of the Robinson St. Church of Christ in Edna.

     Paul was loving, caring, helpful, and fun to be around. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Paul always enjoyed a homemade meal. He especially loved it when that meal was followed with dessert. Paul was vibrant and full of life. He had a joyful spirit and will be greatly missed.

     In lieu of flowers, Paul would appreciate donations  be made to the Robinson Street Church of Christ, in Edna; the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Heart Association.