Gerald Frank Lash

Gerald "Jerry" Frank Lash

August 30, 1938 - November 19, 2025

Gerald Frank Lash, lovingly known as Jerry, passed away peacefully at his home in Lakeside, AZ in the presence of loved ones on November 19, 2025; he was 87. Jerry was born on
August 30 , 1938, in Avilla, Indiana, to the late Flawrence and Lois Lash.

Jerry grew up in Indiana, where he spent his childhood exploring his cousin's farm and developing an early love for the outdoors. Though he once considered leaving high school to find work, a wise coach encouraged him to stay - and to try his hand at sports. That advice changed his life. Jerry went on to letter in basketball, baseball, and track, and even competed in five events at one track meet - an experience that left him wondering if his coach might be mad at him.

During his senior year, Jerry began dating cheerleader Janice Robart. The two fell in love and were married on November 22, 1957. They welcomed their first son, Stan, the following year.

In March of 1960, Jerry and Janice moved to Lakeside, Arizona, with just $15 to their name. Jerry's first job was at the Pinetop grade school, but before long, his work ethic and ambition led him to start a business with his father. In the mid-1960s, they founded Lash Construction, which later became Lash Construction and Electric Company. Together, they built more than 100 homes throughout the area - many in Pinetop Country Club - including some of the first homes ever constructed there.

In 1962 they welcomed their second son, Craig, to the family of adventures and sports lovers. Known for his dedication and craftsmanship, Jerry could often be found at his desk drafting blueprints or planning the next year's projects. During this time, he also built his own home and completed a correspondence course through the Chicago Technical College.

Jerry's love of sports never faded. With the help of his wife, Janice, and their friend Norman Massey, he founded the Pinetop-Lakeside Little League. Lash Construction built the league's first snack bar and dugouts, while Janice made popcorn at home to sell at the concession stand.

Jerry served as vice president of the league, as well as a team manager and umpire, and proudly managed its first All-Star team. After his Little League days, he continued to stay active by playing slow-pitch softball.

Outside of work and sports, Jerry was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking - and had a particular fondness for exploring old mines, ghost towns, and dabbling in gold dredging. His curiosity even extended underwater; as a certified SCUBA diver, he assisted the Pinetop-Lakeside Parks and Recreation Department in recovering items from Woodland Lake - including, memorably, a missing picnic table.

Never one to shy away from adventure, Jerry once decided to go skydiving, earning the honor of being the first to jump because he was the heaviest in the group. He also found time to referee junior high and freshman basketball and to help coach track at Blue Ridge High School. Jerry will be remembered for his boundless energy, love of community, and sense of adventure.

He is survived by his son, Craig, and grandsons, Zach and Troy. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice, and his son, Stan.

Jerry's life was a testament to hard work, family, and a spirit of exploration - a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Lakeside Cemetery.

In lieu of sending flowers to the family, Craig and Troy request you consider donating to Hospice Compassus, 1789 Commerce Drive, Lakeside, AZ 85929.