A Childhood Shaped by Curiosity and Compassion
Gerald Tausch’s story begins in a small American town in the 1950s, where curiosity and compassion were the cornerstones of his childhood. The son of Czech immigrants who ran a family restaurant, Gerald grew up surrounded by tools, electronics, and the bustling energy of small-town life. His father wasn’t just a restaurateur he was a maker and a mentor, always encouraging young Gerald’s natural curiosity.
One of the most impactful memories from Gerald’s childhood involved a quiet act of disobedience against the norms of segregation. He vividly recalls the day three black men came to the back door of their restaurant, hesitant to ask for service inside due to the racial tensions of the time. Gerald’s father welcomed them with open arms, offering them a place to eat. That simple gesture of kindness left a permanent mark on Gerald, teaching him the value of equality and compassion from an early age.
The Spark That Ignited a Lifelong Passion for Making
As a boy, Gerald wasn’t just curious he was hands-on. His father, instead of scolding him for the electronics he ruined, nurtured this curiosity by teaching him how things worked. One of Gerald’s most cherished memories was building a crystal radio with his dad. The project, which didn’t even require electricity, sparked a passion for ham radio and electronics that would follow him for life.
That childhood fascination evolved into a lifelong journey of making. Gerald would go on to invent, build, and innovate in ways that covered everything from radios to patents for NASA. His inventive spirit led him to create patents for infrared curing systems and tank vision blocks, but at the heart of it all was his love for ham radio an enthusiasm that never turn down.
A Legacy of Family and Faith
While Gerald’s accomplishments as a maker are impressive, his greatest pride comes from his family. Alongside his wife, Merry Beth, he raised three children, welcomed seven grandchildren, and is now blessed with great-grandchildren. Gerald credits Merry Beth with being the steady anchor of the family, guiding them through life’s challenges with grace and strength.
Faith, too, plays a central role in Gerald’s life. His reflections on faith, learned through a lifetime of experiences, have shaped his worldview. To him, faith is like a bank account where life’s deposits and withdrawals are made over time. In many ways, Gerald’s life and the lessons he has shared serve as an open book on how to live with both curiosity and faith.
As he looks ahead, Gerald is excited about the future, not just for himself, but for the legacy he leaves behind. His story is proof that no matter where you start, or what challenges you face, a life driven by curiosity, compassion, and faith is one that will always find new horizons. Gerald’s story is far from over. With his latest venture a book about radio and life he continues to create, build, and inspire. As he says, “Stay tuned; perhaps Jesus has more in store for the Tausch family.”