Rodney E Gehris

Rodney E. Gehris, of Felton, DE, formerly of Philadelphia, passed away on Friday, October 14, 2016 at home, he was 69.  He was born in Allentown, PA to the late Leon and Senia Gehris.

Mr. Gehris served his country proudly in the U.S. Marine Corp and served in the Vietnam War.  He received numerous medals and was wounded in service.  Mr. Gehris was self employed and was a siding contractor for many years.  He also worked as a truck driver.

In his spare time, he enjoyed watching movies, and auto racing on TV, especially NASCAR.  He also loved to watch sports, and loved to cheer on his favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys.  He also loved to tinker around the house with home improvements.

Mr. Gehris was a simple man with simple means, but was a hard worker.  He would do anything for anybody without wanting anything in return.  He had a heart of gold, especially for his children and grandchildren.  At times, he could be gruff and boisterous, but he loved to tell a joke and had a funny bone.  No matter where he was at in a room, you knew he was there.  His last wish to his family was that he wanted to be a Delaware resident.  So earlier this week, he moved down to Delaware where he peacefully passed away, fulfilling his final wish.  He will be remembered as a loving and great husband, father, and grandfather, and will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Silvana M. Gehris of Philadelphia; children, Michele Baker-Durso of Williamstown, NJ, Jennifer Baker of Morton, PA, Kimberly (Pasquale Jr.) Baker-Grosso of Felton; grandchildren, Mariah, Chelcie, Nicholas, Vincent, Jessica, and the late Matthew John; and sister, Brenda (Larry) Nonemacher.

Memorial services will take place at Melvin Funeral Home, 15522 South DuPont Hwy., Harrington, on Wednesday, October 19, 2016 at  1 PM.  Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation.

Arrangements are by the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home Inc, Harrington, DE.  Visit us at www.melvinfuneralhome.com to send flowers or sign condolence book.

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