GERDES, John

Vistoso Funeral Home, Oro Valley, Arizona John Gerdes February 27, 1932 - February 3, 2014 John was born in New York and came to Arizona at an early age, living in Prescott and Tucson. He earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees in the biological sciences at the University of Arizona and a Specialist in Science Education degree from Western Michigan University. He taught biological sciences for 28 years at Mid Plains Community College in North Platte, Nebraska. He served for 3 years with the United States Marine Corps. John has worked for the United States Park Service and the Arizona Game and Fish. From childhood, he has had an interest in art. He developed his talent and enjoyed participating in a variety of art shows and being an active member of the Southern Arizona Arts Guild. He did scientific illustration as well as fine art. John enjoyed life and had a variety of interests, including fishing, hiking, camping, traveling and reading. He enjoyed identifying, collecting and painting plants and insects. He was a member of the Arizona Native Plant Society. John will be remembered as a caring, loving husband and father and one who treasured his many interesting friends. He is survived by his wife, daughter and son. Memorial donations in John's name may be made to the Arizona Native Plant Society, "In Memory of John Gerdes", PO Box 41206, Tucson, AZ 85717 or click the link below to make a donation directly on their website.