Dates
Harold Joe Gerhart, age 56, died on August 4, 2023, after a sudden illness. Harold Joe Gerhart was born a twin on December 7, 1966, to Jay Smith and Andrea Pritchard in Abilene, Texas. Harold was later adopted by Walter Alvin Gerhart. Harold was affectionately known as Red wherever he went.
Red spent his younger years attending school in Mozelle, Winters, and Paint Rock. Red had a voice and demeanor like no one else. He had a caring, loving spirit that was always willing to help anyone. His love of people led him to a lifetime career as a respiratory therapist, paramedic, and a nurse. Red attended Howard College and Angelo State University ultimately obtaining his various degrees and certifications which included Registered Nurse, Critical Care Registered Nurse, Certified Respiratory Therapist/Respiratory Care Practitioner, Neonatal (Pediatric) Respiratory Care Specialist, and Licensed Practitioner.
Red loved working in rural towns across West Texas including Ballinger, Winters, Brady, Lamesa, Pecos, Rankin, Big Lake, Sonora, and the place he called home Rolling Plains Hospital. Red called San Angelo home and spent many years working at Shannon and Community Hospital in various roles and positions. He rode on many ambulances across West Texas as a paramedic for various services. He loved helping people at their most vulnerable time. Red had a sincere dedication to the medical field, infinite medical knowledge, and an unwavering positive attitude.
Red is survived by his wife of 24 years Michelle, and the love of his life, his one and only daughter, Michon. His mother-in-law Meme (Norma Busby) who loved him like a son. His sister Mandi Priess and husband James. His brother James Smith and his brother Jarrett and wife Emalee Gerhart. Nephews and nieces that he loved so much, Landry, Joshua, Matthew, Grace and Morghan. He also leaves behind the whole Pritchard and Heathcott crew, who he loved so much. And his beloved cats Gingy, Patchey, Peanut, and Smokey.
The family would like to express unending gratitude to the staff at the Shannon Medical Center ER and ICU. In lieu of flowers please consider making donations to your local volunteer fire/EMS department or the Nurse Honor Guard of the Concho Valley.
A memorial will take place on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Harper Funeral Home in San Angelo Tx.