Gerald Carl Schilling

Gerald Carl Schilling was born on June 19, 1922 in Myrtle, MN to Alex and Laura (Theiss) Schilling.  Gerald grew up on the family farm near Myrtle, went to elementary school in Myrtle and graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1941.  He was active in FFA during school and won many livestock judging awards on the east coast.  On November 26, 1947 Gerald was united in marriage to Delores Tews at Bethlehem Lutheran Church.  The couple made their home in rural Myrtle where Gerald farmed and also was employed at Wilsons and Farmstead.  He also worked in the AFCS Agricultural Office for many years. In his younger days, Gerald enjoyed playing softball, and was proud to be a member of the Freeborn County Softball Hall of Fame.  Gerald was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and was active in the male chorus in Bethlehem’s Lutheran Choir.  After retiring the couple moved to Albert Lea and joined First Lutheran Church.  Gerald enjoyed fishing especially with his son, Alan, hunting, playing cards, and watching sports, especially the Twins and Vikings.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand where ever needed.  Gerald treasured the time spent with his family and friends.  He will be deeply missed by all.

Survivors include his wife, Delores; children, Alan (Katherine) Schilling, Kathy (Keith) Sorenson, Susan Toenges (Nick Wilwert), and Mary Ann (Dennis) Olson; grandchildren, Meka (Nick Simmons) Nielsen, Mindy Toenges (Tim Mann), Jeremiah Olson, Matthew Olson and friend Amanda, Bradley Olson, Chad Olson, Krista (Steve) Friederich, Kari Olson (Tom Finnegan), Justin Wentzler and Jillian Wentzler; great-grandchildren, Brianna Mann, Madison Mann, Brooklyn Mann, Raegan Broitzman, and Kiyanna Olson; sister, Eunice Bendickson; and sister-in-law, Ruth Schilling.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughters, Heather and Denise Olson; brothers, Roy, Donald, Alexander and Kenneth.