Pikesville resident Kenneth Clark Gerstley died Jan. 30 during an apparent robbery outside of a convenience story in the 2900 block of Brighton Street in West Baltimore’s Rosemont neighborhood. Gerstley, who was the vice president of sales and operations at ATM Enterprises Inc., was 58.
Baltimore Police detectives are searching for leads in the case. (Anyone with information should call the police or Metro Crime Stoppers at 866-756-2587.)
In a tribute posted on the website of Sol Levinson & Bros.funeral home, Gerstley’s family wrote, “Ken was kind through and through, thoughtful of others, and a real gentleman. He was quick with a smile and a hug, and he made everyone feel welcome and comfortable with his infectious rumbling laugh; people loved to be around Ken.
“An outstanding athlete, he could play just about any sport with power and grace, and enjoyed being a part of the friendly competitions of Kan Jam and Spike Ball on the beach with his whole family. Over the years, he developed friendships wherever he worked, whether it was in the restaurant or ATM business.”
In particular, the post emphasized that Gerstley, a Baltimore native who attended the Park School, was a devoted family man. “For Ken, the ultimate thing he loved the most was just hanging out with his two daughters and his loving wife. He was a proud and wonderful father and husband, an example and inspiration, and their hero, and he will be missed incredibly much.”
A virtual funeral service was held for Gerstley on Wednesday, Feb. 3, at noon. To view the service, visit sollevinson.com/.
Gerstley is survived by his wife, Lori Gerstley (nee Stavisky); daughters, Allie Gerstley and Tori Gerstley; siblings, Ron Gerstley (Amy Blank), Jeanne (Jeff) Weiner, Geri (Michael) Durham, and Jay T. Judd; mother, Barbara Judd; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Bob and Roz Stavisky; brother-in-law and sister-in law, Jeff & Lori Stavisky; nieces, Allie and Emmy Weiner, Maria Gerstley, Manya Gerstley, Sophie and Lily Stavisky, and Lisa Shang; and nephews, Zach and Jake Weiner and Brooks Gerstley.
He was predeceased by his brother, Lee Gerstley; and father, John Gerstley.
“Kenny loved and he was loved by all,” eulogized his mother, Barbara Judd. “His life was a testament, his devotion to Lori, Allie and Tori. They were always there for him, and he was always there for them.”
At the funeral, Beth El Congregation’s Rabbi Dana Saroken described Gerstley as “a kind, loving, generous, supportive and caring person who touched so many people’s lives. … There are losses and there are tragedies. Kenny’s death is both. It is surreal, unfathomable and hard to take in. There are really no words of comfort we can offer or make some sense of things. There are no silver linings. …
“What we can do, and will do, is to tell the beautiful story of Kenny’s life.”
Contributions in Gerstley’s memory may be sent to Center for Hope, C/O LifeBridge Health Department of Development, Attention: Safe Streets Belvedere, 1425 Clarkview Rd., Suite 100, Baltimore, Md. 21209.
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