Joseph was preceded in death by his mother, Mary, nee Pyszka, Key; a brother, Tony Key; and his maternal grandparents, Robert and Louise Pyszka.
Surviving are his father, Robert J. Gerling of Belleville, IL;
his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Mildred Gerling;
aunts and uncles, Terry Hosey, Rita Davis, Pat (Rob) Eterno, Deborah (Gregory) Bauer, Victoria (Jerome) Ainsworth, John (Janice) Pyszka, and Michael Pyszka;
and many cousins.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit with the family from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2018, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, January 5, 2018, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Douglas Stewart officiating.
Cremation will follow the services.