Louis Robert Gerlach

Louis Robert Gerlach, age 81, of Millcreek Twp., died Thursday, October 11, 2007 at UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, after a brief illness. He was born in Erie, PA on November 24, 1925, the son of the late, John and Rose Trohosky Gerlach.

Louis served in the US Army during WWII in the European Theater. He served at the Battle of the Bulge in the 42nd. Rainbow Division, 242nd Infantry Regiment. He received the Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Silver Star and many other awards.

Louis retired from Zurn Industries after 44 years. He was a member of the Elks Club, Siebenbuerger Club and Our Lady of Peace R. C. Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. He and his wife moved back to Erie after residing in Melbourne, FL for 20 years.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary M. Adams Gerlach. His four children: Bob and Lori Gerlach Wallis, grandchildren, David, Kelly and Lindsey Wallis. Mark and Sharon Gerlach, grandchildren Mitch (Nora) Gerlach, great grandchildren, Griffin and Camryn Gerlach, grandson Adam (Jolene) Gerlach, great grandson, Chase Gerlach. Bill (Shelley) Gerlach, granddaughters, Tara Gerlach, Trista (Doug) Gerlach Johnston, grandson, Derek Gerlach. Bob (Diane) Gerlach, grandsons, Nick and Nathan Gerlach, and granddaughter, Erin Gerlach Watterson.

Louis was preceded in death by his siblings, Bill and Jack Gerlach and Irene (Gerlach) Larson.

Friends may call at the Dusckas-Martin Funeral Home, Inc. 4216 Sterrettania Rd. on Tuesday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 and are invited there on Wednesday at 10 a.m. for the funeral service with military honors. Private interment. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.