James C. Gerlach, Sr., 90
Dateline: Mansfield. MA
James C. “Chet” Gerlach, Sr., age 90, a resident of the Village at Willow Crossings in Mansfield, formerly of Wilkesboro, North Carolina and Dedham passed away on Saturday. August 2, 2014.
Born in Needham, MA on November 24. 1923, he was a loving son of the late Carl C. and Josephine (Blankenberg) Gerlach. He grew up in Needham and was a graduate of Needham High School.
During WWII, Chet proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army. Following nearly three years of duty, he was honorably discharged on December 21, 1945 with the rank of Private First Class.
Prior to retiring, Mr. Gerlach was employed for ten years as a custodian at the Dedham High School. He had formerly worked for the J.J. Struzzieri Construction Co. in Dedham, and at Bimbo’s Towing; also located in Dedham.
For the past 1 ½ years, Chet had made his home in Mansfield and was a former longtime resident of Wilkesboro, North Carolina and Dedham.
He was an avid golfer and bowler, and was a member of the Dedham VFW; where he enjoyed bowling in the club’s bowling league. His other hobbies included auto racing and maintaining his yards to the highest standards.
He is survived by his devoted children; James C. “Chuck” Gerlach, Jr. and his wife Joyce of Plainville and Teresa M. Gagne and her husband Keith of Mansfield. He was the dear brother of the late John Gerlach and Carl Gerlach, and the special friend of the late Phyllis Kendrick. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren; Sean Donahue of Attleboro and Elizabeth Fermano of Wrentham, as well as several nieces, nephews, and his extended family and friends in North Carolina.
Visiting hours, to which relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend, will be held on Thursday, August 7th from 4:00-7:00 P.M. at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home, 55 North Main St., Mansfield. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, Chet’s family has requested that donations in his memory be made to The Junior Caddy Program at the Thorny Lea Golf Club, 159 Torrey St., Brockton, MA 02301.
To send the Gerlach family a message of condolence, please visit www.shermanjackson.com
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