Gordon J. Giesting, age 73 of Oldenburg, died Sunday, January 1, 2017 at his residence. Born March 9, 1943 in Batesville, he is the son of Opal (Nee: Hickman) and Frank Giesting. An over the road truck driver for 32 years, he drove for Perkins, Romweber’s and Hill-Rom, before retiring in 2003. Gordon served in the Army Reserves from 1963 to 1969, was a member of the Prell-Bland American Legion Post #271, Batesville Eagles Aerie #1130 and Holy Family Church.
He enjoyed many interests. Gordon was an avid deer hunter and fisherman. A racing fan as well, he attended over 50 Indianapolis 500’s and all 27 Brickyard 400’s. He wasn’t one to pass up a card game either, playing twice a week with Solo, 7-UP and Euchre among his favorites. According to his family, Gordon was known for his tall tales and trucker’s stories, liked watching sports, taking drives in the country, was always willing to lend a hand to others and through the years developed into a good cook. He had a silly side that leaned heavily towards slap stick comedy and enjoyed watching shows like, The Three Stooges or movies like “Airplane.” What he loved most though, was being with his grandsons.
He is survived by his wife Nina of 50 years; daughter and son-in-law Dena and John Waller of Zionsville, Indiana; sons Todd Giesting of Oldenburg, Chad Giesting and his fiancé Nicole Vitro of Franklin, Tennessee; grandchildren Hank, Conrad and George Waller; Nicole’s son Domenic Vitro; sister Mary Kay Hacker of Batesville and brother Gary Giesting of Martinsville, Indiana. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by brother Rick Bloemer.
Gordon was cremated. Friends may call on the family from 4 – 7 p.m. Friday, January 6th, at the Weigel Funeral Home, with a prayer service being conducted at 4 p.m. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Saturday, January 7th, at Holy Family Church with Rev. David Kobak O.F.M. officiating, followed by burial in the church cemetery. There will be no calling at the funeral home Saturday morning prior to the funeral service. The family requests memorials to the Prell-Bland American Legion in Batesville or to the Oldenburg First Responders.