Richard “Dick” Budd Gerlach, 86, a resident of Detroit Lakes, and formerly of Fergus Falls, died Friday, April 26, 2013, at Immanuel Nursing Home in Detroit Lakes.
He was born May 15, 1926 in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, the son of Emil and Eleanor (Erickson) Gerlach. He attended Morris Ag School.
In 1947 he married Evelyn Pederson. The couple had two daughters, Kathy and Karen. He farmed near Foxhome MN for 40 years, and worked as a realtor in Detroit Lakes for several years. Dick owned and operated Simison Marine on Pelican Lake, MN for 20 years. For his final 16 years he worked at T.S. Recreational Salvage.
In 1986 he married Dorothy Steiner.
He was a member of the Elks and Flying Farmers of America. He was a former member of Foxhome Lutheran Church where he served on the council.
Dick enjoyed flying, reading (he read the Bible twice), fishing, and spending time with his family.
Preceding him in death were his parents.
Survivors include his children, Kathy (Jerry) Simison of Detroit Lakes MN, and Karen (Alan) Arunski of Wentzville MO; four grandchildren: Nathan (Sara) Arunski, St. Louis MO, Matt Arunski, Olathe KS, Todd Simison, Detroit Lakes MN, and Deling Vroman, Moorhead MN (originally Quindao, China); and two great-grandchildren, Sophie and Ellie Arunski. Also surviving is the family of Dorothy Steiner.
Visitation: One hour prior to the service at the funeral home
Service: 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 30, 2013, at the Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls
Clergy: Reverend John Andrews
Interment: Trinity-Faith Cemetery, Fergus Falls MN
Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls is in charge of the arrangements.