Karl William Gerwels, 84, 294 Second St., Minster, died at 5:55 p.m. May 2, 2010, at his home.

He was born Jan. 26, 1926, in Minster to Elmer and Sybil Kneuffner Gerwels. On June 1, 1946, he married Marjorie M. Bernard, who died Feb. 14, 2009.

Surviving are a son, Gary Gerwels, Minster; two grandchildren; one step grandchild; and four great-grandchildren.

Deceased are a sister, Wini Dietrich, and a brother, Elmer Gerwels Jr.

He retired from the Minster Machine Company after 48 years. He was a member of St. Augustine Church in Minster, the Fraternal Order of the Eagles 1391, Minster, and a life member of the Minster Veterans of Foreign Wars. He also was a member of the Minster Fire Department and a member of Cataract Fire Company. He served in the Marine Corps in the Pacific Theater during World War II.

Services are 10 a.m. Friday at the church, the Rev. Louis Schmidt officiating. Burial is at the church cemetery.

Calling is 4-7 p.m. Thursday and 9-9:30 a.m. Friday at Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Minster.

Contributions can be made to Grand Lake Hospice in St. Marys.