Obituary
Guest Book
Catherine L. Gerlach, 70 of Tipton died peacefully at her residence Thursday, January 29, 2026 with her loving family at her side. She was born in Kokomo on October 1, 1955 to Oscar Charles Larson, Jr. and Naomi Joyce (Beecher) Brown. She married Lawrence Gerlach in 1986 and they have spent 40 years together.
Catherine put her creative ideas to use as a cake decorator, making wonderful memories for several people for special occasions. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Kokomo. She greatly enjoyed ballet dancing. Catherine could often be found tending to her garden and listening to soothing music. She had a huge affection for many animals and worked to support groups in providing care to afflicted ones.
Survivors include her husband, Lawrence; son Christopher Jewell of Kokomo; siblings Jeffrey Larson of Kokomo, Steven Larson and wife Tina of Kokomo and Linda Gunther and husband William of Coatesville. She was preceded in death by children Aaron and Susan Jewell.
No services are planned.
Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to assist the Gerlach family during their time of need. Online condolences for Catherine’s family may be left on her obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.
On-line memorial donations may be made to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at https://secure.aspca.org › donate.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
216 W Jefferson Street, Tipton, IN 46072
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more