Gerald was born April 10, 1945 in Breckenridge, MN, to Fred and Grace (Raeder) Andel who liveed in Foxhome, MN at the time. Gerald was baptized in the Foxhome Lutheran Church in Foxhome, MN on Sep. 25, 1945. In 1950 the family moved from Foxhome to Breckenridge, MN and resided on the south side of town and in 1957 they moved to 412 9th St. N where Gerald spent the rest of his growing up years. Gerald was confirmed in 1960 at Breckenridge Lutheran Church. He received his first guitar at the age of 11 and took lessons. He played in a band called the Electons and with the Orly Knutson Band. They played various night clubs and dances. Later in life he just played for his own pleasure and his friends.

Gerald attended Breckenridge Elementary High School and graduated in 1963. In June of 1963 he attended ND State School Science and in 1964 graduated with a Sheet Metal Certificate. He also attended Apprenticeship School at NDSU from 1964-67 receiving a Journeyman degree in Sheet Metal Work and Design.

Gerald married Romayne LaVerne Drager, daughter of Harry and LaVerne Drager of Fergus Falls, MN on April 19, 1964 at Fergus Falls Trinity Lutheran Church. They moved to Moorhead, MN in 1964 with their son Gregory and Gerald worked for Bruce Heating, Foss Heating and Peterson Sheet Metal. In 1966 the family moved to Dilworth, MN with their new daughter Kimberly. In Feb. 1966 Gerald took a position with Robert Gibbs and Sons of Fargo and was with them for 37 years putting his knowledge and skills of sheet metal to work as a foreman on many commercial buildings in the area.

He served on the Riverton Township board for 25 years. Gerald enjoyed hunting and fishing and woodworking. He treasured his wife, children and grandson.

At the time of death he was survived by his wife; Mother; one son; two daughters; one grandson; two brothers and two sisters. He was preceded in death by his father, Fred Andel.