Melvin A. Gerlach

Age 91, of Weyauwega, died on Monday, April 14, 2008 at Bethany Home in Waupaca. He was born on August 31, 1916 in Weyauwega, son of the late Ed & Mary (Abraham) Gerlach. On September 15, 1940, he married Carol Bosland at Baldwins Mill. She preceded him in death on March 3, 2006. Melvin was a lifelong resident of Weyauwega. He owned and operated Gerlach's Grocery Store and Meat Market for many years until selling the business in the late 60's. He then was a partner with his-son-in-law Mike Teal in Bauer's Furniture Store in Weyauwega. He also worked as a state meat inspector and as a meat cutter at various meat markets. He served on the board of Associated Grocer's for several years. Mel served as mayor of Weyauwega from 1956-1958. He was a member of the Weyauwega Chamber of Commerce and active in other civic activities. He was also a volunteer driver for Waupaca County Health & Human Services for several years. Mel enjoyed fishing and relaxing at his place at Pelican Lake. He was a member of St. Peter Ev. Lutheran Church in Weyauwega. Mel is survived by his children: Terry (Aniko) Gerlach, Vancouver, WA; Ellen (Mike) Teal, Weyauwega; Chuck (Gloria) Gerlach, Weyauwega; Dick (Becky) Gerlach, Scottsdale, AR; Dennis (Lynn) Gerlach, Weyauwega; Mark (Marsha) Gerlach, Waupaca; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; a sister: Marian Ruggles, Grants Pass, OR; also nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, a son Wayne, and an infant brother. The Christian Funeral for Mel will be held on Friday, April 18, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Ev. Lutheran Church in Weyauwega with Rev. Robbin Robbert and Rev. Dennis Lemke officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Weyauwega. Friends may call at the church on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service.