Gerald P. "Gerry" Ditchfield, 73 of Paxton passed away at 9:21 a.m. Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at Illinois Veterans' Home, Manteno.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 23, 2021, at Glen Cemetery, Paxton with Father Dong Van Bui officiating. Military funeral honors will be conducted by Paxton American Legion Prairie Post 150.

Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Friday, January 22, at Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E. Pells Street, Paxton preceded by a rosary beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Gerry was born July 6, 1947 in Evanston the son of Thomas Joseph and Emer Phibbs Ditchfield. He married Theresa Ware July 25, 1970. He married Nelda Henrichs October 10, 2010 at Paxton. She survives.

Along with his wife, Nelda, he is survived by two sons, Thomas Joseph (Tiffany) Ditchfield of Ottawa, Daniel William (Cynthia) Ditchfield of St. Joseph; one daughter Cynthia Wirth of Champaign; six grandchildren; three step daughters Leann Kaufmann of Woodworth, Jolene Ronna of Campbellsville, KY, Carla Savoree of Claytonville; ten step grandchildren and a brother, Desmond (Wendy) Ditchfield of CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister Deidra Koss and two brothers, Aden and Owen Ditchfield.

Gerry graduated from Aquinas Catholic High School. He served in the United States Air Force as an accomplished photographer working for Public Affairs at Edwards Air Force Base. During his military career, he traveled the world and was stationed in Germany and numerous states. He retired as a Master Sergeant after 20 years. He and his family moved to Paxton in 1986. He then went on to a second career as a truck driver for J.B. Hunt.

He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Paxton, the Knights of Columbus and the church choir. Gerry enjoyed traveling, sailing and spending time with his family.

Memorials may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, Paxton or an organization of the donor's choice. Please share your memories and condolences with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.