William Joseph Gerlach

William Joseph Gerlach, 78, of Loris, SC, passed away on October 26, 2026 in Augusta, GA.

William was born in Suffern, NY to George and Helen Gerlach on December 23, 1947. He went to school at Clarkstown North. He married Lynette Mericle on November 4, 1967 at Grace Baptist Church, Nanuet, NY.

He worked as a Operating Engineer for Local 825 for numerous years.

He was an avid outdoorsman. He also shared a love of bowling with his wife, Lynette, and together they participated in bowling clubs. Above all, he cherished spending time with his family

William is preceded in death by Brothers, Karl Gerlach, John Gerlach, Walter Gerlach; and Sons, James A. Gerlach and William J. Gerlach, Jr.

William is survived by his wife Lynette Mericle Gerlach; Children, Michael (Tara) Gerlach, of Loris, SC, Dan (Sarah) Gerlach of Longs, SC, Brenda (Tom) Hughes of Gilboa, NY, as well as Rob Pagano (Sheri Cooney) whom he loved as a son; Brother, George Gerlach of Loris, SC; Sister, Ada May Kane of Snellville, GA; Grandchildren, Linda, Michael, Bailey, Delaney, Sadie; and Great-Grandchildren, Lennon and Mason. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to the American Cancer Society and St. Jude Children's Hospital.

There will be no services at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family of William wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Grand Strand Hospital and Doctor's Hospital in Augusta.