Gerhardt, Marilyn F. 1933-2025 St. Joseph, Mo.

Marilyn F. (Pedriali) Gerhardt, 92, St. Joseph, passed away Friday, Sept. 5, 2025. She was born July 29, 1933, in Brockton, Massachusetts, to Augusto A. and Mary L. (Martin) Pedriali.

In an era when few women donned the uniform, Marilyn answered the call of duty by serving in the United States Marine Corps from Sept. 1, 1951, to Aug. 4, 1953. After her honorable service, Marilyn married the love of her life, Jacob “Jake” Gerhardt, on July 11, 1953. They walked hand in hand through life until Jake’s passing on July 12, 2003, marking 50 years of shared dreams and unwavering support.

Marilyn’s professional path as a secretary for the St. Joseph School District spanned an impressive 27 years, where her dedication to the community and its children knew no bounds. Recognized for her outstanding service, she was titled the 1985 Woman of the Year by the Eugene Field Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association, and in 1991, she achieved the honor of Support Person of the Year for the St. Joseph School District.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Marilyn’s life was enriched by her associations and interests. She was a devout member of the St. Joseph Cathedral Catholic Church. Her military lineage remained a source of pride, evinced by her lifelong membership in the Women Marine Association and her status as a charter member of Women in Military Service for America Memorial Foundation, INC. Moreover, she was actively involved in the St. Louis Service Women’s Post 404 of the American Legion.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Augusto and Mary; husband, Jake; and three brothers.

Survivors include her children, Mary Ann Penniston (Bill), Larry Gerhardt (Linda), Dianne Maugh (Steve), Mike Gerhardt (Robin), Nick Gerhardt, Rick Gerhardt (Stacy), Patti Holley (David), and Julie Sumpter (Buddy); 16 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial 10 a.m. Wednesday, St. Joseph Cathedral Catholic Church. Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery. Parish Rosary 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, St. Joseph Cathedral Catholic Church. The family will gather with friends 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the St. Joseph Cathedral School Endowment or the local food pantry.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.