Michael Henry Gerten

Michael Henry Gerten, 79, of Hastings, MN, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Mike was born on June 14, 1946, in St. Paul, MN, to Leonard and Margaret Gerten. He was the second oldest of ten siblings. Mike joined the Army in 1968 and honorably served for four years. He attended St. Mary’s University and Dakota County Technical College. In 1972, Mike married the love of his life of 53 years, Theresa “Terry” LeDuc. In 1979, Mike joined his dad, Leonard, in running Gerten Brothers. In 1982, Mike and Terry moved to Hastings, MN, and continued farming. Mike also worked intermittently for Hitchcock Industries for over 20 years.

Mike took immense pride in his family and farm. He was very humorous, which was only surpassed by his generosity. Mike was his kids’ biggest supporter and touched the lives of many through his associations with farmers markets, Kangwha-Do veterans, bowling, cards, fishing, the Knights of Columbus, and snowbirding in Florida.

Mike is survived by his wife, Terry; his children, Kim (John), Henry (Theresa), Dan (Lori), Connie (Jeff), Lenny (Ari), and Stacey Hentges, along with Lonzen Rugira and Brian Coffey; thirteen grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Margaret; and his siblings, Terry and Phil.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St., Hastings, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 27, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2035 W. 15th St., Hastings, with a visitation at the church from 10:00 AM until the start of Mass. A reception will follow the service. Burial will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery with military honors on a later date.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.