Gerry A. Durenda

March 15, 1951 - August 1, 2019

Gerry A. Durenda, 68, passed away at his home in Alliance August 1, 2019 of complications of cancer. Gerry was born March 15, 1951 in Springfield, Ohio to Albert and Beulah (Shutler) Durenda. He graduated from Alliance High School, after which he served his country in the U.S. Army, being stationed jn Germany. He later attended both Kent State University and Mount Union College, now The University of Mount Union. Gerry remained a resident of Alliance most of his life. Gerry was employed for many years as a supervisor by Hendrickson International in Canton. Prior to that he worked at Transue & Williams Stamping in Alliance in supervision. He was a member of the Alliance Elks Lodge #467. Gerry was an avid golfer in the summer and enjoyed skiing in the winter. He also enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and following the Cleveland sports teams. Whether it was his loved ones, his vocation, a hobby, his infamous home improvement work, or traveling, Gerry was passionate about everything he did. His enthusiasm was a quality that couldn't be diminished by disease, for even in sickness, he continued to work on his "projects", plan trips, and to care deeply for his family and friends. That he did so is a testament to his spirit and will. Survivors include his beloved wife of 43 years, Leslye (Tanner) Durenda; step-sons, Jeff (Fely) Crestani of Jacksonville, Florida and Joseph (Kathryn) Crestani of Fairview Park, Ohio; sisters Louise (Larry) Buck of Alliance and Sandy (Barry) Marx of Ellenboro, NC; brothers Larry (Kim) Durenda of Alliance and Jerry Durenda of Ravenna, Ohio; grandchildren, Jacob, Corina, Teri, and Brian; sister in law Sheila Tanner of Saline, Michigan; brother in law James Tanner of Phoenix, Arizona, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Jeff Durenda. The family will be hosting a celebration of Gerry's life at the Elks Pavilion in Alliance at 606 Glamorgan St. on Sunday August 18, 2019 between the hours of 1:00 and 4:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that memorial contributions for Gerry be made to a charity of the donor's choice. You are invited to view Gerry’s tribute wall, offer condolences and share memories at www.sharerfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are by the Sharer-Stirling-Skivolocke Funeral Home.