Loren “Ike” M. Gaerte, 79, Albion, passed away at 6:14 a.m. Tuesday, April 19, 2016, at his home in rural Albion.

Mr. Gaerte was born on Sept. 27, 1936, in Whitley County, a son of Russell C. and Julia (Conner) Gaerte. He spent his formative years in Noble County, and graduated from Churubusco High School in 1955.

On April 6, 1957, he was married to Hope A. Wert. He was employed at Noble County Highway Dept, and retired after more than 25 years. Mr. Gaerte was a member of Blue River Church of the Brethren.

The surviving relatives include wife of 59 years: Hope A. Gaerte, Albion; a daughter: Marylyn Gaerte, Yuma, Ariz.; three sons: Marc A. Gaerte; Michael L. (Pam) Gaerte, both of Avilla; and Wayne L. Gaerte, Albion; three sisters: Karen (Roger) Smith, Churubusco; Judy (Terry) Wooten, Albuquerque, N.M.; and Ginny (Terry) Skiles, Avilla; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers: Gene; Richard; and Kevin Gaerte.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 23, at Blue River Church of the Brethren, with Pastor Craig Alan Myers, officiating. The family will receive friends at the Sheets and Childs Funeral Home from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday, April 22, or one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam.

For those who wish, memorials may be directed to Blue River Church of the Brethren Mission Fund or the Noble House Shelter.