Gerald Himes

Gerald J. Himes, 87, formerly of Cedar Falls, died on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Denver Sunset Home. He and his twin brother, Gene, were born on April 21, 1936, to Cecil and Catherine Himes. He lived at Park Manor Apartments in Cedar Falls for 40 years and called Cedar Falls his home. He worked for the Hometowner for 30 years as a sales associate, a job that he loved. He was famous for his award-winning chili, making it for many fundraising events. He lived in his own apartment until hospice and the doctor said it was no longer safe to live on the third floor. He battled COPD and other breathing issues but would always say “I’m doing good,” with an added smile. His biggest love and passion were taking over the Teddy Bear Roundup his brother started when the Shriners Hospital for Children fixed Gene’s club foot free of charge. He wanted to give something back and when he was older, he started the roundup for children at the hospital. The children were thrilled to receive a Teddy Bear at Christmas time while recovering. When his brother died suddenly, Jerry decided to take the event over to continue his brother’s legacy. He brought it to the Cedar Valley and literally “rounded up” all kinds of people to help. Eileen Loan from KWWL, the mayor of Cedar Falls, singers, The Shriners Band, and even Santa would make an appearance. Main Street was the path he walked as he asked for donations for his cause. Brass Tap, What’s Poppin, Sweets on Main, L & R Jewelry, Humble Travel, Flowerama, and many others joined in to help the children. He was so grateful for all of his many friends that joined the fight. Even with declining health he continued to gather a team to help and the event would continue for 41 years. On September 12th as Teddy was getting out of her car to see him, her phone rang and they told her he had just taken his last breath. It was a shock it happened so quickly, and his family said his mom, dad, brother and sister died suddenly also. He is together again with his parents and his twin brother and sister. His niece, June Larman, and her daughter, Dawn, are living in Omaha where he will be buried. His great friend, Kevin, drove from Omaha each year for the roundup. He will be missed by many. Funeral services will be 9:30 a.m. Monday, September 18, 2023, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Cedar Falls. He will be buried next to his twin brother at Westlawn-Hillcrest Memorial Park in Omaha, NE, at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 20, 2023. Next time you see a bear, give it to a child to hug and make Jerry and Gene smile from Heaven.

Gerald Himes

April 21, 1936 - September 12, 2023