Gerald J. Shank, age 90 of Polk, passed away on June 8, 2026 at Brethren Care Village.
Born in Ashland County on October 12, 1935 the son of Rodney and Mary Ann (Dessenberg) Shank, he was a resident of Ashland County all of his life. Gerald had been employed for 30 years at Ashland Rubber Products and also was employed at Hospira for over 12 years before his retirement in 1999. He was a graduate of Hayesville High School Class of 1954 and was a member of the Maple Grove Church of the Brethren.
On August 21, 2020 Gerald was married to Marlene Shoup who survives.
Gerald enjoyed taking bus trips to various events and casinos with his wife Marlene. He also enjoyed breakfasts with retired Hospira employees. Some of his other interests include participating in Church League softball and bowling. He also restored an International Farmall tractor that he would share with anyone who was interested. Gerald also enjoyed traveling to various fairs with their trailer, and he also loved Sunday Family Pizza night with his family.
In addition to his wife, Marlene, he is survived by five children: Susan (Max) Robinson of Michigan, Patricia (Charlie) Fleming of Florida, Robert Shank of Ashland, Pamela Keplinger of Nankin and Debbie Gorman of Ashland. Also surviving are four stepchildren: Rick (Marty) Shoup of Polk, Ronda Hinkle of Polk, Regina (John) Stutzman of Polk and Ranita (Travis) Bates of Polk. One brother, Larry Shank of Springfield also survives. Numerous grandchildren and step-grandchildren also survive.
Gerald is preceded in death by his parents, one son, Jerry and five brothers: Dick, William, Donald, Danny and Roy. He is also preceded in death by his first wife.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Heyl Funeral Home. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 am till 11:00 am at the funeral home on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Memorial contributions may be made in Gerald’s name to either of the two following organizations. Maple Grove Church of the Brethren, 960 Township Road 964, Ashland, Ohio 44805 or Pathways Hospice,41 Briggs Drive Unit 3, Ontario, Ohio 44906
Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.heylfuneralhome.com
Heyl Funeral Home is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
Funeral Home: Heyl Funeral Home
Website: www.heylfuneralhome.com