Harmon Gerken

Harmon “Uncle Bud” Gerken died unexpectedly at his home in
Forestville on May 26. Bud, a San Francisco native, spent his
summers at the River. Bud was a lifetime member of Forestville’s
Hollydale Club and he hosted the Gin Fizz/Green Potato Pancake
brunch for 40 years. His Nana and mother, Polly, were founding
members of the club. He was a superb fisherman, baker and cook. Any
holiday was an occasion to have his buns or smoked salmon on the
table. Bud enjoyed water sports and taught everyone skills for
fishing, diving, skiing and boating. During the ’50s he served in
the Navy Reserve as an Electronic Technician 2nd Class and spent
time in Sasebo, Japan on the cargo ship USS Diphda AKA-59. Once
home he became a TV repairman. He fixed our TVs, VCRs and radios
for fun. He was an avid collector of video games. He always made
sure the kids had games to play during summers’ late evenings while
the adults played cards on the porch. Bud loved sports and video
taping. Rain or shine, family or friend, “Uncle” was always there
to support you and video the event. He was preceded in death by his
sister Dolly. He is survived by his mother, Polly, brother-in-law
Pat, scores of nieces, nephews and many friends.