Wayne Scot Gerhardt

Wayne Scot Gerhardt April 8, 1961 – April 25, 2025

Wayne, age 64, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side at UCSF on April 25, 2025. He was born on April 8, 1961, in Santa Rosa, California, to Bud and Barbara Gerhardt. He attended Piner Elementary School and Piner High School. After high school Wayne earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and went on to build a successful career at Sola Optical and Viavi Solutions. Wayne loved sports and played football, lacrosse and soccer in both high school and college. He remained a lifelong sports fan enjoying 49er, Shark, and Giants games.

He married his first wife in 1982 and together had 3 sons. He remarried in 1999 and together they shared a life filled with love. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who found his greatest joy in family and the outdoors. Wayne was the proud father of Aaron, Luke, and Jacob Gerhardt, and stepfather to Michael and Michele Pedro.

One of Wayne’s greatest passions was spending time at his family’s buck ranch, where he found peace in nature and joy in the tradition of hunting.

He is survived by his wife, Fernanda; his parents, Bud and Barbara; his sons—Aaron (Thia), Luke (Katelyn), and Jacob; his stepchildren, Michael and Michele; his brothers—Daryl (Nancy), Ralph (Rhonda), Loren, and Floyd (Sabrina) Gerhardt; his seven beloved grandchildren—Logan, Molly, Macy, Tyson, Milly, Shane, and Bo; and his sisters- and brothers-in-law—Maria, Tony, Irene, Aurelio, Art, Al, Karene, and John.

Wayne will be remembered for his deep love for his family, and his connection to the land he loved.

A memorial service will be held Saturday May 24, 10:30am, at Parent-Sorensen Mortuary 850 Keokuk St., Petaluma 94952.

A celebration of life immediately following at 2354 Westview Way, Santa Rosa 95403

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to Crosspoint Community Church, 1577 Guerneville Road, Santa Rosa 95403 or to a charity of your choosing.