Ronald J. Gerhardt, 65, of St. Louis, formerly of Cape Girardeau, passed way Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014, at Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis.

He was born June 1, 1949, in Cape Girardeau, to Kermit and Ernestine Miller Gerhardt.

Ronald was a member of Grace United Methodist Church in Cape Girardeau. He attended grade school through high school at the former Campus School at Southeast Missouri State University.

He was employed more than 30 years with the state of Missouri, working as an instructor at Bellefontaine Neighbors Special Needs School. He enjoyed housesitting and dog-sitting for family and friends. He also enjoyed decorating Christmas trees for businesses and private homes.

Loving survivors include a brother and sister-in-law, Kermit and Cheryl Gerhardt of Jackson; an aunt, Mary Lee Miller of Cape Girardeau; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two great-nieces.

A memorial service will be at 3 p.m. Dec. 7 at Grace United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Tom Sullenger officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.