Gordon "Gordy" Gerlach

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gordon (Gordy) Gerlach, 76, of Hastings, on January 3, 2024, who peacefully passed away in his sleep at home.

Gordy was born on October 4, 1947, in Hastings, Minnesota. His parents, George and Armena Gerlach, had 4 children (Gary, Gordy, Mary, and Rita). In high school, he was a Golden Gloves Boxer, played basketball and baseball, and won the Hastings table tennis title. Following high school, Gordy attended college at Winona State University, where he obtained his undergraduate degree, which is more impressive after telling us how he partied 6 days a week for 4 years. After college, he backpacked Europe and traveled the world with his friends. During his travels, he met Gloria Cimmino, and they had 4 boys together: Andy (born in Florida), Adam (Born in Kentucky), Dana (born in California), and Shawn (born in Minnesota). He ultimately resided in Hastings, where he co-owned Triax Communications for over 25 years, a job he truly enjoyed. Throughout his life, he traveled to over 25 countries and 49 US States, and made friends all around the world.

In his spare time, Gordy enjoyed doing anything as long as he was with people. He was a devoted Hastings Raider sports fan, MSU Hockey fan, and fan of all Minnesota professional sports teams throughout his life. He loved playing softball and played for over 50 years, winning 14 state championships, 13 national championships, and being inducted into both the MN Softball Hall of Fame and the USSSA Softball Hall of Fame. He was an avid prankster with a great sense of humor, even in the most serious of moments.

Gordy had a great appreciation for music, especially ones he could experience live with friends and family. He wrote down every concert he’s been to and saw 67 of his favorite artists around the country, from Jerry Lee Lewis in 1967 to The Beach Boys in 2019. Most of all, Gordy will be remembered for his exceedingly thoughtful, selfless, kind, and goofy demeanor. There was never a favor too big that he wouldn’t take on for the ones he loved. He was a great father, friend, and one-of-a-kind, and his spirit will live on through those who knew him.

Gordy is survived by his children: Andy (wife Amy), Adam (wife Bryanna), Dana, and Shawn (wife Laura); siblings: Gary, Mary, and Rita; and grandchildren: Melanie, Joey, Drew, Gracie, Gabrielle, Beau, Lennon, and Stella; and extended family members.

A Celebration of Gordy's Life will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, at the Hastings Public House.