John "Steve" Gerlach's Obituary
John "Steve" Gerlach, 69, passed away on February 7, 2025, at an assisted-living facility in Gahanna. Born June 25, 1955 in Marietta, OH to Wendell and Margaret (Smith) Gerlach.
Steve was a 1973 graduate of Unioto High School, where he was a member of the football, golf, basketball, and tennis teams. He then graduated from The Ohio State University - Wooster in 1978 and went on to be a dedicated courier at Federal Express.
Steve was a devoted cheerleading coach for multiple junior, high school, and college teams, earning awards at the state and national levels. He was an avid golfer, especially enjoying his years as a member at Upper Lansdowne Golf Course. Steve also was a lover of watching live music and playing the guitar.
He retired from Federal Express in 2017, having worked there for 35 years, accumulating numerous awards for safe driving. After retirement, Steve discovered a passion for horses, volunteering at Rising Star Ranch in Pataskala.
Steve's greatest joy in life was his grandchildren Bella and Harrison, with whom he shared a special connection. He found great meaning in his role as Papaw, enthusiastically supporting their activities, and spoiling them as often as possible.
Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Wendell and Peg Gerlach, of Chillicothe, OH. He is survived by his daughter, Heather (William) Van Tyle, of Gahanna; grandchildren, Arabella and Harrison Van Tyle; brother, Mike (Deb) Gerlach of Middleport; and sister, Susan (Edwin) Tomlinson of Bellefontaine. He is also survived by Linda Green (née Rath), to whom he was married from 1978 until 1983, and his best friend Tim Rodgers.
A private memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Arabella and Harrison's college savings plans via ugift529.com using code Q7B-K8Z.
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