Written by, Sarah Phelps, American Red Cross Public Affairs Volunteer
Egon Gerson poured so much into his 100 years that writing a short memorial seems a disservice. The summation of a life spent in selfless compassion and extraordinary helpfulness is a mere glimpse into a profoundly rich experience. Egon emigrated to the United States from Germany in 1938 to escape the Nazi regime. After settling in Chicago, he met and married his beloved Elaine in 1942. One month after becoming a citizen in March 1944, he enlisted to serve in the Navy in the Pacific. He remembered, “That was my reason. I felt that whatever little thing I could do to help destroy the Nazis, I would.”[i] Egon served aboard the USS Ashland and participated in the invasion of Iwo Jima. He returned to Illinois and settled into family life, having three girls with Elaine, and working for Illinois Tool Works. Egon began his career with the American Red Cross in Illinois and continued after retirement in Summit County, CO. He taught, served as a volunteer ambulance driver, and worked at the Keystone Clinic. He helped found the Red Cross chapter in Summit County and served in numerous roles until he turned 100 in January 2021.
Dr. Maya Angelou said, “At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” Egon’s legacy lies in the profound care he had for his fellow man and the willingness to provide comfort and connection to so many that he encountered. His 50 years of service in the Red Cross created places and relationships that made others feel safe and cared for. His friend and neighbor, John Taylor, remembers his smile as he greeted 1000 visitors at an event ten years ago, “Egon was so special. There was only one Egon.” Jody Acres, Red Cross Northwest Colorado Disaster Manager, was close to Egon and remembers his kind demeanor and pieces of chocolate for the numerous friends he encountered every day. Ms. Acres visited Egon in March and he observed, “It’s been a good life. I’ve always tried to be a helper.” That he was. Egon Gerson passed on April 4, 2021.
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[1] From “Summit County community celebrates 99th birthday of WWII vet, City Market employee.” By Sawyer D’Argonne, Summit Daily, January 16, 2020.
The American Red Cross meant so much to my father. When it was time for us to learn to swim, he was right there with us, teaching us to swim, but also being an instructor in an American Red Cross sponsored swim instruction program. He was an active first aid instructor in Illinois and Colorado assuring that hundreds of National Ski Patrolers could pass their first aid exams. To say that the Red Cross was a passion for my dad is an understatement. Thanks to all Red Cross volunteers. It’s the volunteers that make the Red Cross what it is.