Gerald E. "Ponch" Dearth, age 78, died on Wednesday, December 07, 2016 at 11:00 AM at Van Crest of Ada.

He was born on November 5, 1938 in Ada, Ohio to Edwin Keith and Mary (Reed) Dearth who preceded him in death. On December 28, 1957 Gerald married Dorleen P. Hattery and she preceded him in death on June 11, 1995.

Gerald "Ponch" retired after 30 years from Ford Motor Company of Lima in 1987. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He was a life member of the Ada VFW Post#9381, where he also served as a former member and president of the Dad's Club. Gerald "Ponch" served as a member of the VFW Post Honor Guard. He was a lifetime member of the AmVets of Lakeview.

He is survived by a son, Jeffrey Dearth of Ada; two daughters: Crystal J. (Douglas) Helton of McGuffey and Pennie L. (Robert DuMont) Dearth of Medina; six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren; two brothers: Ronald Dearth of Ada and Danny (Yvonne) Dearth of Roosevelt, Utah; two sisters: Ruth Ann (Dennie) Shaw of Lima and Deb (Randy) Kirkendahl of Harrod.

He was preceded in death by a son, Gregory in June 2010.

Funeral services will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 10, 2016 at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada with Pastor Thomas Dearth officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery with graveside military rites conducted by the Ada VFW Post #9381 Honor Guard.

 
Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, December 9, 2016 at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Ada and until time of service on Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Ada VFW Post #9381 and/or charity of the donor's choice.