Dale Charles Gerstenecker, age 87, of Columbia, Il. died Tuesday, November 11, 2014 at the Columbia Convalescent Center in Columbia, Il.

He was born January 14, 1927 in Jarvis Township, Madison County, Illinois, son of the late Edward and Edna LeOpal, nee Stark, Gerstenecker.

He was married April 15, 1950 in Troy, Il., to Lyla Marie, nee Thurnau, who preceded him in death on November 3, 2005. They were married for over 55 years and she was the love of his life.

Mr. Gerstenecker was a retired grain elevator manager after 30 years. He was a farmer at heart, having raised his four sons on his five acre farm. He was a member of the Woodcarvers, St. John UCC of Collinsville, School Board Member of Freeburg High School, Freeburg Rotary Club, Life Long Leader of 4H, Turkey Hill Grange and St. Paul UCC of Freeburg, Il.

He is survived by four sons, and daughters -in-laws. In addition he is survived by eleven grandchildren and their spouses, 7 great grandchildren. In addition he is survived by several brothers and sisters and their spouses. Brother and Sister in Law. He is also survived by his birthday buddy.

The family has suggested memorial contributions be made to the Dobois Church Camp or the University of Illinois 4H Foundation and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, November 14, 2014 at Herr Funeral Home in Collinsville, Il. Visitation will also be held Saturday, November 15, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. John United Church of Christ in Collinsville, Il.

Funeral Service will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Saturday at St. John UCC in Collinsville, Il., with the Rev. Tony Minear officiating.

Burial will follow at Lake View Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, Il.