Deacon Gerald Anthony Streit, son of George and Leona (Fandel) Streit, was born on December 15, 1936, in Whittemore, Iowa. He grew up in the close-knit Whittemore community and graduated from Presentation Academy in 1954, carrying with him the values of faith, family, and hard work that guided his life. In 1956, Gerald enlisted in the National Guard, serving until 1962 and achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant in Algona. His service reflected his steady character, sense of duty, and commitment to others. On October 22, 1959, Gerald married Ellen Theresa Hutchinson in Bancroft, Iowa. In 1962, Gerald and Ellen began their family farm, pouring their hearts into the land and raising their family with the values they cherished.
Guided by a deep and growing faith, Gerald discerned a call to the diaconate and was ordained a permanent deacon on May 24,1986, by Bishop Lawrence D. Soens. His ministry became a defining part of his life, offering service, compassion, and spiritual guidance to his parish and community. Gerald wore many hats throughout his life, each reflecting his commitment to service and stewardship. He was a past president of the Palo Alto County Pork Producers and an active member of the Palo Alto County Extension Service and Conservation Service. In the mid-1980s, he worked with Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, lending his voice and energy to efforts that strengthened rural communities and supported the preservation of the family farm, a cause close to his heart.
Faith was at the center of Gerald’s life. He made and worked Cursillo and Marriage Encounter weekends and especially enjoyed helping with Search Weekends, where he found joy and inspiration in working with high school students. He coordinated and taught high school religion classes in West Bend, sharing his faith with the next generation. His dedication to parish life was equally strong. He served on a diocesan task force focused on the preservation of the family farm. He served on the advisory board and as president of the Sts. Peter and Paul School Board, was a member of the parish finance committee, and chaired the parish peace and justice committee. Gerald was also a proud member and past Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus Council 3032, offering leadership grounded in humility, brotherhood, and service.
In 1990, Gerald and Ellen moved off the family farm, though they never left it far behind. That same year, Gerald accepted the role of Director of the Grotto of the Redemption in West Bend, serving from 1990 to 2003. As a deacon, Gerald was especially honored to preside over the baptisms of many of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He also considered it a special blessing to witness and participate in the Sacrament of Marriage for several of his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Sharing in these sacred moments of family life brought him great joy. Gerald enjoyed fishing, hunting, and playing cards with family and friends. He was also gifted with creativity and craftsmanship, designing and creating numerous religious items that were sold in the Grotto gift shop. He took great pride in these works, which reflected both his faith and artistic talents. Nothing brought Gerald more happiness than spending time with his family. He and Ellen traveled countless miles over the years to attend their grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s many events and family celebrations. Gerald treasured every opportunity to support and encourage those he loved.
Gerald passed away on October 23, 2026. He is lovingly survived by his wife Ellen of 67 years, children: Vivian Streit of Algona; Michelle Streit of Adel; Anthony (Diane) Streit of West Bend; Myra (John) Crawford of Elberon; Joyce (Chris) Lizzi of Plymouth, MN; Sarah (John) Jackson of Oklahoma City, OK;, and Rebecca (Justin) Abell of Sigourney; 25 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, with two on the way. He is also survived by his siblings, Rita (John) Reinders and Paul (Marilyn) Streit; brothers-in-law Tom (Kay) Cahill and Wayne (Bernadeb) Hutchinson; sisters-in-law Rose (Steve) Mead, Louise (Ed) Kellner, and Agnes (Mike) Hynes; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Cletus Streit (Ann Marie and Fritz VonBank), Bernard Streit (Eunice), Edward Streit (Betty), Mary Katherine Erpelding (Marvin), and Coletta Cahill.
The family would like to thank you for your many acts of kindness and expression of sympathy..... Gerald returns home to the God he faithfully served. We invite you to a time of fellowship and luncheon in the church basement following the Mass.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23
A Mass of Christian Burial for Deacon Gerald Streit, 89, of West Bend, was held Friday, October 30, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Divine Mercy Parish - St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in West Bend. Visitation was from 4 to 7 PM on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in West Bend with a Knights of Columbus Rosary beginning at 3:45 PM and a scripture wake service beginning at 7 PM. Oakcrest Funeral Services of Algona in charge of arrangements.
