Josef Gerich was born on September 8, 1935, in Brestovoc, Yugoslovia to his parents Josef Gerich, Sr. and Katherina Manhart. He left us on August 9, 2026, to be with his Heavenly Father.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 69 years, MaryAnn Holzworth; his sons, Joe Gerich of Marengo, Jack (Mia) Gerich of Lucas, Jeff (Jann) Gerich of Mansfield and Danny (Gina) Gerich of Mansfield as well as his daughters, MaryAnn (Kirk) Bechtel and Linda Huffman of Mansfield. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 8 step grandchildren and 4 step great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his parents, 4 brothers, 2 sisters, 2 grandchildren and his son-in-law Tracy Huffman.
Joe was a 50-year member of St. Mary’s of the Snows Church as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus. He retired from Therm-O-Disc after 29 years of dedicated service. He was an avid homing pigeon flyer both in Mansfield and in Florida where he spent 8 years of his retired life enjoying the beautiful weather and the company of his wife and new Florida friends. He won numerous competitions with his prize-winning pigeons. He enjoyed polka music and dancing, watching football in the fall and winter and his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes. The most important thing and passion in his earthly life was the profound and unwavering love of his family and times spent especially with his grandchildren and great grandchildren fishing.
Although he will be missed by many; his legacy lives on through the memories of his love of life and his love of family and friends.
The family extends a special thank you to Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate and thorough care and Crystal Care and the dedicated staff.
Family and friends may visit from 9:00-10:00 am on Friday, August 21, 2026, at St. Mary of the Snows Catholic Church, 1630 Ashland Rd. Memorial Mass will follow at 10:00 am. Joe will be laid to rest at Prince of Peace. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary of the Snows or Gentiva Hospice.
Words of condolence may be expressed at www.wappner.com
Funeral Home: Wappner Funeral Directors & Crematory-Mansfield
Website: www.wappner.com