Gerson Ray Harnisch, Jr. “Gus” passed away peacefully at his home on March 22, 2025 at the age of 68 in Decatur, Tennessee.

Born on August 11, 1956 in Baton Rouge to Gerson Ray Harnisch Sr. and Doris Fleming Harnisch, he was the caboose of the family and the only boy. His sisters would race off the bus after school to see who could get to him first. He was spoiled rotten to say the least.

After graduating from high school, Gus went on to become a welder and made it his life’s trade, often teaching those new to the field. He had a personality that lit up the room, always telling Boudreaux & Thibodeaux jokes laying the Cajun accent on thick. Anything to make you laugh! He enjoyed eating well and was an excellent cook. He always shared his love for good food with friends and family. Gus really wanted to be a Chiropractor deep down and he was happy to practice his skills on anyone that was willing to give him the opportunity.

Gus was a hunter, fisherman, and football fan, all things he learned from his father and enjoyed those activities with his uncles and cousins for many years. His cooking skills however, those came from his mother along with many family recipes she passed down.  He was a Christian following the teaching of The Jehovah’s Witnesses and wanted to share the good news with all willing to listen. He firmly believed in resurrection on a paradise earth. Until then, may he rest in peace.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Pamela Clark Harnisch, stepsons Austin (Jenn) Clark, Dustin (Rachel) Clark, Coltin (Misty) Clark, daughters Brandi Harnisch Buturla and Jerica Harnisch Guillory, grandchildren Kaden Ross, Brennan and Rylie Buturla, Izic and Adria Guillory, Emery and Jacob Clark, Cali Clark and Noah Tuck. Great grandsons Jonathan & Quinn Ross, Sisters Sandra Harnisch Smith and Fritzi Harnisch Jenkins, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and friends that became family.

Gus was preceded in death by his parents, sister Carol Harnisch LeBlanc, niece Laura Leigh Cook.

A Celebration of Life Memorial will be open to all at The Cabin & Courtyard Event Center (5405 Highway 44, Gonzales, LA) beginning at 1:00pm on Sunday, June 8th. Come dressed in Purple & Gold… the color of his blood! Geaux Tigers!

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in memory of Gus to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the St. James Place Foundation. 

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