Lamar, MO - Brian Wade Gerbitz, born June 23, 1973, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly.

His life was marked by profound

connections with people drawn to his intelligence, his humor, and his willingness to help others. He was a talented engineer who could solve problems quickly but he was known for loyally digging out his tools to assist a friend in times of need, displaying caring qualities passed down from his grandparents Gerbitz and Hernandez and his parents.

He showed his best traits through the activities he enjoyed, whether fishing at trout camp with his buddies, hiking in the woods with his wife, or scrapping with his grandpa as a young boy—who then spent the recycle money he earned on his sisters. He showed his love for others in so many sentimental ways, too many to count.

He is also loved beyond telling.

Brian is survived by his wife Crystal with whom he shared their sweet mini dachshund Truffle in Lamar, MO, his parents Lewis and Lydia Gerbitz of Joplin, MO, sisters Satia Gerbitz and Carrie Gerbitz, aunts, uncles, and many cousins and friends.

Family and friends memorial gathering will be held 2:00 pm CT Sunday, February 22 at Mining Days Event Center 703 Dawson Dr, Webb City, MO 64870.

Anyone who would like to share a

memory of Brian directly with the

family may submit it through the link

https://forms.gle/38QZTYq1XvptC9Hv7.