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James Gerlach Obituary
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He was married on March 7, 1952, to Nellie (Pigford) Gerlach of Sparta, IL. They were a devoted couple who celebrated their 73rd anniversary in 2025.
Jim was a faithful member of Bethel Reformed Presbyterian Church in Sparta. He was employed by Spartan Printing Company for 35 years, starting his career at the age of 16 ½ years old. In 1984 he was transferred to Stillwater, OK as Pressroom Superintendent to help with the start of a new plant. He retired in 1989 after reaching 40 years with the World Color Organization. In 1992 he and his wife Nellie returned to their farm in Sparta. Jim had many hobbies – hunting, fishing, horseback riding, water skiing and wood working. He was a very outgoing person, talking to anyone and everyone around him. He was a great storyteller; his stories were more like tales of safaris or fishing expeditions.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Janet Shipp, granddaughter Jessica Gerlach, and nephew Terry Gerlach.
Jim is survived by his wife Nellie, brother Willis Gerlach, sister-in-law Marilyn (Marlowe) Gerlach, son Jeff Gerlach and daughter-in-law Gerol (Gillison) Gerlach.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.heilschuessler.com.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Mission to North America. Memorial Envelopes will be available at the church and funeral home.
The Visitation will be held at Bethel Reformed Presbyterian Church in Sparta, IL on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Curt Rabe, Pastor Matthew Rabe and Pastor Alex Eppstein officiating. Committal Services will take place at Caledonia Cemetery in Sparta, IL.
Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta, IL is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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111 West Main St., Sparta, IL 62286
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