Robert Lee Gerlach

Robert Lee Gerlach, 77, of Springbrook, passed away peacefully, Monday morning, March 6, 2017, at his home in Springbrook. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 9, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, in Springbrook. Visitation for Robert will be held from 3:00 7:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at Sts. Peter & Paul and again Thursday morning from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m. also at the church. Robert was born on October 5, 1939 on the family farm in rural Jackson County, son of Anton Henry and Dorothy (Ries) Gerlach. He married Carol Helmle on November 23, 1963 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Robert was an easygoing, laid-back and kind hearted man, who was always there for others in need. He farmed all his life and truly enjoyed all of it. Robert appreciated even the smaller tasks. In his later years Papa Bob loved giving his grandchildren rides on his Bobcat.Robert was an active member in the community and his church. He was Treasurer for Washington Township, a member of the Bellevue American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and the Springbrook Fire Department. As a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, he served in any way that was needed. Bob will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Those left to honor his memory, include his wife, of 52 years, Carol Gerlach, of Springbrook; seven children, Jeff (Kelly) Gerlach, of Springbrook, Jodi (Randy) Heine, of Hampshire, Illinois, John Gerlach, of Houston, Texas, Chuck (Basia) Gerlach, of Davenport, Chad (Beth) Gerlach, of Springbrook, Carrie (Joshua) Pitts, of LaMotte and Shelby (fiancé Ben Harman) Gerlach, of West Des Moines; fourteen grandchildren and two sisters, Duetta Banowetz and Darlene Helmle.He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, John and Kenneth and sister Delores Banowetz.In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Marquette Catholic Schools in Roberts name.Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com.