JOEL FRANKLIN “JOEY” GERLACH, JR. age 42 years, a resident of Ellamore, WV departed this life Tuesday morning March 26, 2013 at his home in Ellamore. He had been disabled for many years, however he had been in his usual health and death was unexpected.
He was born Tuesday, June 30, 1970 at Buckhannon, WV a son of the late Joel F. Gerlach and Opal Marie Davis Gerlach, who survives at Ellamore. Also surviving are four brothers, Rodney Thomas Gerlach and Hattie; Michael Francis Gerlach and Nancy; Daniel Raymond Gerlach and Amy, Jerry L. Bender and Becky; all of Ellamore; two sisters, Lora Lee Gerlach, Ellamore; Julie Ann Zirkle and David, Jimtown; special family, Verna “Marie” Carr; and Nelson and Ruth Wagner; several nieces and nephews; and several great nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are one brother, Steven Louis Gerlach.
He attended the schools of Coalton. Joey loved life, collecting movies, enjoyed canoeing, bicycling, fishing, hiking, was known for his artistic ability and was a train enthusiast.
The family will receive friends at the Lohr & Barb Funeral Home of Elkins from 6 to 8 PM, Friday. On Saturday morning, March 30, 2013, Joey will be moved to the Mountain State Memorial Gardens at Gilman, WV where graveside rites will be conducted at 11 AM. The Rev. Jim Murphy will officiate and interment will follow.
