Obituary of John Michael Gerard

John Michael Gerard, age 71, of North Liberty, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at his home.

A time for family and friends to gather to remember John and to support those who loved him will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service.  Private family graveside service will be held at the Oxford Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Compassus Hospice.

Born on May 7, 1955, in Marengo, John was the son of Gene and Betty (Phelps) Gerard.  He attended West High School in Iowa City.   He was united in marriage to Arlene Kahler on June 23, 1973.  John worked for the Labors Union Local 309 for 45 years. 

John enjoyed boating, camping, and in his retirement, traveling the country with Arlene.  He loved to follow NASCAR, especially watching the Daytona 500.  He took pride in his 1974 Harley Davidson and 1987 Sea Ray boat.  

John was a skilled craftsman.  He was very proud of the projects he completed for his children.  John loved his family.  He enjoyed spending time traveling and at the motorcycle track with his son, Matt.

John’s family includes his son, Matt and his wife, Heather; their children: Matthew, Jacob (Bailey), Ben and Rachael; a great-grandson, Tucker; his siblings: Kay (Don) Tupper, Linda Parker, Terri (Ed) Beranek, and Bob Gerard.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Arlene in 2023; a daughter, Amy Buzalsky; a sister, Tiny Kinzenbaw; a brother, Ronnie Gerard; and a brother-in-law, Michael Parker.