Charles A. “Charlie” Gerson Jr., Obituary and Death: Remembering Charles A. “Charlie” Gerson Jr., Age 80, of Alton, Illinois, Formerly of Hardin, Whose Peaceful Passing on August 8, 2024, at St. Louis University Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri, Marks the End of a Life Dedicated to Family, Community, and Agricultural Passion, and Whose Legacy Will Live On Through His Devoted Family and Cherished Memories
Charles A. “Charlie” Gerson Jr., Obituary and Death: Remembering Charles A. “Charlie” Gerson Jr., Age 80, of Alton, Illinois, Formerly of Hardin, Whose Peaceful Passing on August 8, 2024, at St. Louis University Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri, Marks the End of a Life Dedicated to Family, Community, and Agricultural Passion, and Whose Legacy Will Live On Through His Devoted Family and Cherished Memories
Charles A. “Charlie” Gerson Jr., aged 80, passed away peacefully at 9:20 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at St. Louis University Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri, concluding a life of deep devotion to family, a strong commitment to community, and a lifelong passion for agriculture. Charlie, born on June 23, 1944, in Alton, Illinois, was the beloved son of Jennie (Jacobson) and Charlie Gerson, Sr. His early life unfolded in Carrollton, Illinois, where he was nurtured by a family deeply rooted in agricultural traditions. He attended grade school and graduated from Carrollton Community High School in 1962, setting the stage for a life characterized by dedication and hard work.
After high school, Charlie joined his father on the family farm, an experience that left a lasting imprint on his character. The farm was not just a place of labor but a symbol of his family’s values and his connection to the land. Working alongside his father until 1971, Charlie learned the intricacies of farming and developed a profound respect for the hard work that goes into cultivating the land. In 1972, Charlie transitioned to a career as a mechanic at Krause & Son in Jerseyville, Illinois, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his professional life.
It was during his tenure at Krause & Son that Charlie’s path intersected with Ramona, the woman who would become his lifelong partner. Their meeting in 1977 led to their marriage on September 16, 1978, in Carrollton. The couple built a life together in Hardin, Illinois, where they raised their children and created a home filled with love and cherished memories. Charlie’s career at Krause & Son evolved significantly over the years. In the mid-1980s, he was promoted to Service Manager, a role that allowed him to showcase his leadership skills and commitment to excellence. By 1991, Charlie’s career took another turn as he transitioned into a sales role, discovering a new passion for “wheeling and dealing.” This passion, combined with his business acumen, led to the pivotal moment in 1998 when Charlie and Ramona purchased Krause & Son and rebranded it as Prairie Land Power.
Under their ownership, Prairie Land Power flourished, becoming a cornerstone of the local economy and community. Charlie’s dedication to the business extended beyond mere management; it reflected his deep-seated belief in the importance of contributing to the community that had supported him throughout his career. His involvement in the Jerseyville Rotary Club, where he served as President from 1999 to 2000, highlighted his commitment to community service and his desire to make a positive impact.
Charlie’s passion for agriculture was evident not only in his professional endeavors but also in his personal life. He was an avid collector of antique Massey Harris, Ferguson, and Massey Ferguson equipment, a hobby that connected him with others who shared his enthusiasm for agricultural history. His love for farming extended to extravagant gardening, where he spent countless hours tending to his plants and cultivating his garden. Charlie’s participation in organizations such as the Illinois Massey Collectors Association, Friends of Ferguson, and the Tri-County Antique Club enriched his life with friendships and a shared appreciation for agricultural heritage.
Family was the central focus of Charlie’s life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Ramona, and their four sons: Rick (Linda) Gerson of Springfield, Ron (Rebeca) Gerson of Lake Elsinore, California, Chris (Joliene) Gerson of East Peoria, and Nathan (Alesha) Gerson of Leroy, Ohio. His daughter, Shelly (Jason) Sievers of St. Jacob, and his five grandchildren: Justin (June) Dibbler, Kenzie and Kaden Sievers, and Audrey and Ava Gerson, were sources of immense pride and joy for him. Charlie also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Carter and Harrison Dibbler, and three brothers: Paul Gerson of O’Fallon, Missouri, Dave (Debbie) Gerson of Hamburg, and Bob (Patty) Gerson of Batchtown.
Charlie’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jennie and Charlie Gerson, Sr.; his mother and father-in-law, Art Armstrong and Shirley (Russell) Armstrong; a grandson, Bob Dibbler; a sister-in-law, Cyrena Gerson; a niece, Gwen Herkert; a nephew, Billy Gerson; and a brother-in-law, Russell Armstrong. His legacy of love, dedication, and passion will continue to inspire and resonate with those who were fortunate enough to be a part of his life.
Visitation for Charlie will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville, with funeral services scheduled for 10 a.m. on Friday. Burial will follow at Elsah Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in care of the funeral home. Memories of Charlie can be shared with the family by visiting
Charlie Gerson’s life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his family, his community, and his passions. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, and he will be remembered with great fondness by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
