Eugene Gerik, Jr.

Eugene Gerik Jr., age 52, of Mart, passed away early Monday morning, October 7, 2013 at his residence. A rosary will be recited 6:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, with a visitation to follow until 8:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elk, with Msgr. Isidore Rozycki and Rev. Michael Ajewole as celebrants. Burial will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery. Eugene was born December 22, 1960 in Waco, the son of Leona Lillie (Dvorak) and Eugene Joe Gerik, Sr. He attended school at St. Mary's Catholic School in West and Mart High School. On October 6, 1984 Eugene was united in marriage to Jilji Mary Dudik in Penelope. He was a farmer and rancher his entire life. Eugene was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elk. He was also a member of S.P.J.S.T. Lodge #126 and the R.V.O.S. Ross Lodge. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, taking care of his cattle and watching western movies. He especially loved playing with his grandkids. Eugene is preceded in death by his in-laws, Emil and Lucille Dudik, Jr. Survivors include his beloved wife of 29 years, Jilji Gerik of Mart; his parents, Leona and Eugene Gerik Sr. of Mart; three sons, Mark Gerik and wife Brittni of Riesel, Phillip Gerik and wife Shelly and Thomas Gerik, all of Mart; two daughters, Teresa Gerik and Vicky Gerik, both of Mart; a brother, James Gerik and wife Lanette; three sisters, Patricia Reesing and husband Robert, Bernice Gerik, and Janet Hykel and husband Eddie Jr.; four grandchildren, Hayleigh, Keston, Aaron and Wyatt; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Pallbearers are Marvin Dudik, Lambert Dudik, Stell Waldrop Jr., Craig Schmedthorst, Emil Dudik IV, and Michael Dudik. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.