Gary Lee Gerst

Gary Lee Gerst, 78, of Waterloo, passed away on March 12, 2026. Born on February 21, 1948, in Waterloo, he was the son of Eugene and Maxine (Helm) Gerst.

Gary married Donna Rainsberger on March 3, 2000. He dedicated 47 years of his working life as a route driver for Hostess, Little Debbie, and Sara Lee. He found great joy in bowling, following stock car racing and NASCAR, cheering for the Chicago Cubs, and spending time with his beloved pets.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna; a daughter, Lori Gerst; a brother, Mike Gerst; and sisters-in-law, Nancy Gerst and Renee Gerst. Gary is survived by his children, Troy (Denise) Gerst and Tammy (Scott) Laughlin; brothers, Richard Gerst, Dennis Gerst, and Dave Gerst; a sister, Cathy (Dave) Knapp; grandchildren, Sam (Emily) Gerst, Emily (Bryce) Hoffman, Scott Laughlin, Skylar Laughlin, and Ty Laughlin; and six great-grandchildren.