Robert Joseph Gerchow II

1944 - 2016

Sept. 25, 1944 - Aug.18, 2016 71, of Pelham, AL died on August 18, 2016. Born September 25, 1944 in New Orleans where he achieved Eagle Scout, graduated from St. Aloysius High School and attended UNO, USL, and later Jefferson State. Bob was employed by BellSouth for over 30 years. In 1973 he was transferred to Alabama and continued to raise his family here. He was later employed by Shelby county. He was a charter member of Our Lady of the Valley where he served as lector, Eucharistic minister, chairman of the Country Fair, and a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus. Bob and his wife served the community through Engaged Encounter, Marriage Encounter, and he was Chief Poling Inspector in Pelham. He was an active member of the Shelby County Jaycees, the Lions Club, and on the Board of Directors for Shelby County Junior Miss. He spent a lot of time being handy man for anyone who needed his help. His favorite "job" was being one of Santa's helpers; a role for which he is fondly remembered by many. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Joseph and Marion Ray Gerchow; his brother Ronald Gerchow, and his loving wife Karen Hull Gerchow. He is survived by his children Robert Joseph Gerchow, III (Kelli), Dr. Tracey Kennedy (Jim), and Mandee McDonald (Ken). He is also survived by his grandchildren who lovingly call him "Pop": Ryan Williams (Alison), Alex Gerchow, Ben Gerchow, Michael Gerchow, Joshua Kennedy, Aaron Kennedy, Jennifer McDonald, Amber McDonald (Brad), Whitney McDonald, Madison Beasley, and Blake McDonald and his two great grandchildren Lexi Williams and Wyatt Goembel. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 26 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with the funeral mass following at 11:00 am. There will be lunch provided following interment at the church for all who attend. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Our Lady of the Valley Church or to the Red Cross for Louisiana Disaster Relief.