Kathleen M. Gerdes 1948-2026

She was born on June 14, 1948, in Youngstown, the daughter of William R. and Marie Ida Zimmerman Briceland.

Kathleen graduated from Chaney High School in 1966, and then Youngstown State University in 1991, where she received her bachelor’s degree in business administration and later received her MBA.

She worked for Home Savings and Loan for many years, and after raising her family, spent the remainder of her career working for the federal government.

Kathleen married the love of her life, Robert S. Gerdes, on Feb. 3, 1968. Sadly, he passed away on July 21, 1989.

During her career, Kathleen earned several certifications for her completion of the Marine Corps Logistics Education Program and appointment as a contracting officer for the United States of America. She was also presented with awards from NASA, such as an Exceptional Service Medal and a plaque for dedicated service from her nine years of service to the Glenn Research Center.

Kathleen retired in 2019 from NASA and moved home to be near family. After her retirement, she was an active member of the Lions Club. She also enjoyed many hobbies, including sewing, knitting, cardmaking, reading, cooking, baking, and, most importantly, spending time with her family. Most notably, she enjoyed a morning coffee every day with her twin brother, Pat.

Kathleen leaves to cherish her memories, her daughter, Lisa Gerdes (Anthony Mileto) of Struthers; her son, Robert S. (Kristine) Gerdes of Xenia; and her daughter, Jennifer Gerdes of Struthers; her beloved grandchildren, Brooke Scott (fiance, Jacob Banko), Jacqueline Scott, Elaina Gerdes, Robert Gerdes and Aiden Gerdes. Kathleen also leaves her sister, Bernadette Melchione of California; brother, Michael Briceland of Florida; brother-in-law, Hayden Gerdes; sister-in-law, Mary Grace Briceland; and brother-in-law, Michael Perello; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Kathleen was preceded in death by her best friend and twin brother, Patrick Briceland; sister-in-law, Cindy Gerdes; her sister, Maria Perello; and her brother-in-law, Blaine Gerdes.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the Fox Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at St. Dominic Church, 77 E. Lucius Ave., Youngstown, OH 44507.

Kathleen’s family would like to express their sincere appreciation and gratitude for the outstanding care given to their mother at Masternick Memorial and the staff of Southern Care Hospice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman.

Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and to give condolences to the family.

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