Gerald A. Hirschfeld, age 85, of New Bremen, died unexpectedly at his home.

He was born on March 23, 1938 in Russia, Ohio, the son of the late Luther A. "Jack" and Margaret B. (Coffield) Hirschfeld. On January 28, 1979, he married Ann D. Meiring, who died on February 4, 2020.

Surviving are his children: Stacy (Rich) Prenger of Minster, Steve (Jody) Hirschfeld of Carlsbad, California, and Eric (Kristen) Hirschfeld, of Huber Heights; his grandchildren: Brian Prenger, Stephanie (AJ) Ernst, Nathan Hirschfeld, and Erin Hirschfeld; and his great-grandchildren: Eden and Quintin Ernst.

Jerry was the last of his family, being preceded in death by his wife, his parents, and his siblings William C. Hirschfeld and Linda A. Yaney.

Jerry was a graduate of New Bremen High School. After graduation, he went on to serve in the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany. He had worked for Airstream in Jackson Center for a number of years driving all over the country delivering campers.

He then went on to work at Crown Equipment Corporation in New Bremen where he worked for over thirty years, much of that time as a tube bender. Jerry was a very social person and loved spending time with his family and friends. It didn't matter if he was playing Yahtzee, being part of a car club, spending time at the New Bremen American Legion Canteen or the Minster Eagles, he just enjoyed being around people; telling stories, and sharing his humor.

He also had a quiet side and he enjoyed alone time gardening, tending to his yard, rescuing dying plants, listening to country music, and looking at cars. He loved to have fun driving his motorcycle (in his younger days), but more recently his convertible, or watching his favorite shows, Seinfeld and Law & Order. He will be remembered for his youthful spirit and his zest for life.

Memorial Services will be held on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at 3:00 P.M. at the Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home in New Bremen, with Rev. Becky Erb Strang officiating. Inurnment will follow in the German Protestant Cemetery in New Bremen.

Calling hours will be held prior to the services on Sunday, April 23, 2023 from 1:00 until 3:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions in memory of Jerry can be made to the New Bremen Historic Association (122 N. Main Street, New Bremen, Ohio, 45869) or to the Arbor Day Foundation (211 N. 12th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508).

Condolences and memories can be shared with the family online at www.gilberghartwigfh.com.