John J. Lerch

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of John J. Lerch, a cherished husband, devoted father, and loving son, who left this world on May 11, 2024, in Tampa, Florida, after over a 3 year courageous battle with brain cancer.
John was born on November 7, 1972, in Columbus, Ohio. His early life in Columbus with his late father James Roley and his mother Linda Bailey shaped him into the courageous, intelligent, and loving man that so many came to know. John's academic journey led him to The Ohio State University, where he pursued his passion for political science. His quest for knowledge and commitment to the study of law continued as he earned his Juris Doctorate from Capital University.
Throughout his career, John combined his keen intellect and unwavering ethics to lead as a consultant in labor law and risk management. However, the role he cherished most was that of "best pops ever," a title bestowed upon him by his beloved son, James "Jimmy" Lerch. The innumerable moments shared between father and son were filled with laughter, adventure, and an unbreakable bond.
John's love for his family knew no bounds, and he treasured his wife, Diane Lerch, with whom he built a legacy of love and mutual respect in 25 years of marriage. Together, they explored life's wonders, often setting off on travels that nourished their spirits and family bond. Their adventures spanned from the sandy shores of beachside to the family vacations and enjoyment of football season together. John's fervor for the game was matched only by his enthusiasm for his favorite teams, The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
A man of diverse interests, John relished the simple joys of life. He found serenity in exercising and taking long walks on the Pinellas Trail, where the beauty of nature was a constant source of inspiration. John's love for animals was evident in his care for his three turtles, Harlon, Shelley, and Frankie, and his cat, Heidi. They, too, were part of the loving family John considered his greatest achievement.
John's legacy is not only etched in the memories of those who knew him but is also written in the multitude of lives he touched. His compassionate spirit, will to fight and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on all those he met and the health care providers that supported him in his fight against one of the most aggressive malignant primary brain tumors known as a glioblastoma.
His departure leaves a void that will be felt by all those fortunate enough to have been part of his life. John is survived by his adoring wife, Diane Lerch; his son, who will continue to look up to him as the "best pops ever," James "Jimmy" Lerch; his loving mother, Linda Bailey; his cherished pets, and many family friends all of whom will miss his presence deeply.
John J. Lerch's life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of character, and the importance of family. Though he has departed from this earthly realm, his spirit remains alive in the hearts of those he touched. We take comfort in knowing that John lived a life full of purpose and love, and we cherish every memory shared with this remarkable man.
As the sun sets on the life of John J. Lerch, we look toward the horizon with gratitude for having known such a remarkable individual. May his story continue to inspire courage, intelligence, and love for many years to come.
John and his family would like to extend a special thank you to all the providers involved in his care including his biggest supporter and cheerleader his primary care provider Dayhanara Pena, DNP, APRN. He would also like to thank Tampa General Hospital with a special recognition to the following teams: 5K Neuro Critical Care, Neuro Surgery, Neuro Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Palliative Care, Radiology MRI team and an entire team of nurses, patient care techs and ancillary team members that provided care and support to him and his family.
The month of May is recognized as Brain Cancer Awareness month. In recognition of John and his courageous fight against brain cancer his family asks you to join them out on the Pinellas trail or your favorite place to get outdoors on Saturday, May 25th walking, biking, or jogging in his memory. John walked the trail in the Palm Harbor area up to Wall Springs almost daily even when the weather didn't cooperate, after multiple brain surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation treatments. His grit and fight against this horrific disease was like no other. He was known by his trail friends as "Walker John". His unwavering strength and perseverance to fight until the end was a testament to his will to live and his love for his family.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests those who desire to remember John to please make a contribution in his memory to one of the following:
American Brain Tumor Association online at bit.ly/DonateABTA
Brain Tumor Network online at https://www.braintumornetwork.org/donate/