Feb. 28, 1943 - May 21, 2012

ELKHART — Gerald L. Vanest, 69, of Elkhart, passed away at 2:05 a.m. Monday, May 21, 2012, at the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart following a battle with cancer.

He was born Feb. 28, 1943, to the late Lewis D. and Delores (Rasey) Vanest in Chattanooga, Tenn.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Missy McCutcheon; and brothers Jim and Billy Vanest.

He married Sharon K. Ruby on Dec. 31, 1961, in Marion, Ohio.

She survives along with daughter Carla (David) Leitch of Elkhart and sons Mike (Kay) Vanest of Goshen and Jerry (Norma) Vanest of Mishawaka. Also surviving are 18 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; brother Ronnie (Terry) Vanest of Prospect, Ohio; sisters Carol Sue (Ralph) Thomas of Bucyrus, Ohio, and Bonnie (Dennis) Camp of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; two very special friends, Shorty Kincaid and Ernie Lyons; and his faithful friend, Missy.

Gerald worked for 41 years as a road conductor with the Erie, Conrail and Norfolk Southern railroads. He was a member of the New Hope United Methodist Church and Gideon's International. He was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during the Vietnam War from 1960 until his honorable discharge in 1964. Gerald was a member of American Legion Post 162 and Moose Lodge 889 in Marion, Ohio, and the 11 Meter Club. He enjoyed bowling and playing golf. He loved his family and his children thought the sun rose and set with Dad.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 24, 2012, at New Hope United Methodist Church, 28765 C.R. 4, Elkhart. There will also be calling for one hour before the 3 p.m. funeral service Friday, May 25, 2012, at the church. Pastor Lee Campbell will officiate. Graveside services and burial will follow at Little Pine Cemetery with full military honors.

Memorials may be made to the Hospice Foundation. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Billings Funeral Home Elkhart.

---