Garrett, Charles Cerotsky Jr., aged 80 of Springfield Missouri passed away at 4:15 PM on November 5, 2025 at Mercy Hospital peacefully surrounded by his family.

Garrett Charles Cerotsky Jr. was born Feb. 15, 1945. He was raised in white Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. He then joined the military to serve his country as an aircraft mechanic. He was known for his work on the blackbird SR-71. His military service included the Vietnam war in Thailand and Okinawa, Japan. He concluded his career at Beale Air Force Base, California with 20 years' service, decorated with numerous awards and commendations. He then retired from the service in 1983 to reside in Yuba City, California. He worked in Riverside California on the B2 stealth bombers. He then worked in home repair for 20 years and then retired from civilian workforce.

Garrett and his wife Gwen relocated to Springfield, Missouri in 2001. He volunteered out at Springfield International Airport. Garrett's hobbies and joys in life included spending time with family, and his friends on the block, fishing, gardening, and his pooches miss Annie and miss Chloe.

Garrett was known as grandpa to many. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was a great friend and didn't know a stranger. His smile, and affectionate personality was infectious. His loss is felt through the homes of all who loved him.

Garrett loved our Lord Jesus Christ and attended James River Church. You would find him singing hymns such as the Old Rugged Cross and the battle hymn of republic. He has lived a long and full life and was ready to go to his eternal home in heaven.

Garrett is proceeded in death by his father and mother. Daughters Nicole and Stephanie, and granddaughters Jordan and Brittany. He was survived by wife Gwendolyn, son Scott and his wife Julie. His grandchildren, Alex, Hannah, Olivia Briana, Bryan, Morgan, Derek, Danielle and Zach. Great grandchildren Clementine, Remington, Daisy, Hudson, and Jameson. His family members were his pride and joy.

Flowers may be sent to Gorman Scharpf funeral home.

Visitation will be held Monday, November 10, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home followed by a service at 11:00 AM, 1947 E. Seminole, Springfield, MO 65804.  We will be having a luncheon at the Golden Corral compliments of the family, 2020 E. Primrose St., Springfield, MO 65804. Burial will be Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 8:45 AM in Missouri Veterans Cemetery with full military honors, 5201 S. Southwood Rd., Springfield, MO 65804

Please join us to celebrate the life of Garrett.