Galen Jay Gerken Obituary

With heavy hearts, we announce the death of Galen Jay Gerken of Defiance, Ohio, who passed away on February 8, 2026 at the age of 61. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

He was predeceased by: his parents, Edwin Gerken and Marie Gerken (Hoops); his brothers-in-law, Gary Arps and Don Mohring; and his nephew Greg Gerken.

He is survived by: his wife Tina Marie Kunesh; his children, Chelsea Bostelman (Dan), Elise Gerken and Ethan Gerken (Erin); his grandchildren, Dade Bostelman, Klara Bostelman, Garrett Gerken and Grant Gerken; and his siblings, Eldor Gerken (Jane), Judy Arps, Edwin Gerken (Karen), Cathy Mohring, Larry Gerken (Sue), Mike Gerken, Denny Gerken (Lynnette) and Scott Gerken (Connie). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Plant a tree or make a contribution to the Arbor Day Foundation.