Gerald Risden's Obituary
Gerald Eugene Risden, 92, of Gilbert passed away on March 16, 2024. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 23, at 10:30 a.m. at Grandon Funeral and Cremation Care (414 Lincoln Way Ames, Iowa 50010) In lieu of flowers please feel free to make a memorial donation to the Iowa Heart Association and Gilbert Fire Department. Gerald was born on September 29, 1931, to Gary and Alice Liston, in Maquoketa, Ia. At 9, Gerald's dad (Gary) passed away. Alice then married Frank Risden. Frank adopted the (6) children. He attended Maquoketa High School Class of 1950. After primary education, he went on to Join the United States Navy and served honorably from November 16, 1952, to March 22, 1956. After he returned from his service, Gerald married Kaye Calmer on October 5, 1957. The two would be blessed with their children Aldon and Tawny. He served on the Gilbert Fire Department for over 20 years (1965 to 1985) and as the Gilbert mayor from 1981 to 1985. Gerald worked at the Iowa State University Power Plant for 32 years (1962 to 1994). Ultimately serving as Operations Manager. Gerald loved to spend his free time fishing, especially his annual Salmon fishing trips to Lake Michigan. He would take this trip for over 30 years always accompanied by his close friends and later his children. He and Kaye enjoyed also spending time gardening. Left to cherish Gerald's memory is his wife Kaye, and children: Aldon, and Tawny (Kreg) Longnecker, grandchildren: Gered (Michelle) Burkhardt and Aldon Risden Jr. and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Alice (Howard) Liston-Risden and Frank Risden, and siblings Annabelle, Vincent, Martha, Donna, Barb, and Mary. Online condolences can be made to: www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com
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