Meinard John Gerads

Meinard John Gerads, age 84, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2025, at Prescott Nursing Home. Meinard was born on February 14, 1941, in Stearns County, MN, to Thomas and Juliana Gerads.

Meinard honorably served his country in the U.S. Army Artillery, attaining the rank of E4 during three years of active duty, including overseas service in Germany during the Berlin Crisis. After his military service, he had a dedicated career of over 40 years with Ford Motor Company in St. Paul, MN.

Meinard married Joyce Helen Tacik, and together they made their home in Chisago City, MN, sharing many memorable years filled with family gatherings and community involvement. Meinard had a passion for tractor collecting, notably John Deere, Farmall, and Ford tractors, which he proudly displayed during community parades and events, often representing American Legion Post 272.

Meinard enjoyed spending his leisure time outdoors, especially deer hunting at the family’s northern property, boating, ice fishing, and snowmobiling at Mille Lacs Lake. He also enjoyed restoring antique lamps, trips to the casino, attending estate sales, and playing cribbage, a game he always welcomed.

Above all, Meinard treasured the moments he spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and step-grandchildren, creating lasting memories during tractor rides and family visits.

Meinard is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Gerads; children, Marcia, Michelle, Tony, and Tommy; stepchildren, Marie (Robert) Miller, Chris Ott, and Mike (Heather) Darst; grandchildren, Anthony Meinard Gale and Jacob Gerads-Green; step-grandchildren, Madison Miller, Emily Ott, ReaLynn Miller, Zach Ott, Kara Darst, Skyler Miller, Matt Darst, and Adalyn Darst; siblings, Melvin, Rosemary, Rudy, Ellen, Julie, MaryAnn, Bernice, and Jane; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Juliana Gerads.

A burial with military honors will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, 7601 34th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55450. Attendees are asked to gather in assembly area 2 between 10:00 and 10:15 AM. Visitation will follow from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings, MN 55033. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 1:00 PM, with a reception immediately following at the chapel.