peacefully at Ashford Retirement Village Prebbleton , just short of 98 years. Much loved husband of the late Helen. Dearly loved dad of Wendy. Grandfather to Nick and Victoria, and great grandfather to Oscar and Mason.  Messages to the Gerken family, P O Box 472, Ashburton 7740.  In lieu of flowers donations to the Cancer Society would be appreciated and can be made at the service. A service to celebrate Gordon’s life will be held at our Chapel cnr East and Cox streets, Ashburton on Thursday October 5^th commencing at 2.00pm, followed by private cremation at the Ashburton Crematorium.