John R. Gerlach

John R. Gerlach, age 79 of Bellevue passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024. Born on February 28, 1944 and was the son of the late John and Lauretta Gerlach. 

While attending St. Joseph Grade School in the Manchester section of Pittsburgh, Jack began taking piano lessons from Sister Gregory, a Benedictine Nun. He became proficient at the keyboard and was encouraged to consider learning to play the pipe organ at the parish church. From then on, he excelled in church music, including Gregorian Chant, Latin Mass Propers, and traditional and modern hymns. 

John dedicated his life by providing beautiful inspiring music for many churches in the Pittsburgh Diocese. He continued sharing his talent for over 50 years. 

He had a special place in his heart for Sacred Heart Parish in Emsworth where he was an organist for 41 years. 

Survived by his brother, Bernard of Newport News, VA; Classmates and Friends, Francis J. Naderhoff and Emil Payer. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his grandmother Didi Henderson. 

Family and Friends will be received on Friday January 19, 2024 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm at the McDonald-Linn Funeral Home, 529 California Ave., Avalon, PA 15202. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday at 11:00AM at Sacred Heart Church-Regina Coeli Parish. Interment will be private. 

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Little Sister of the Poor, (1028 Benton Ave., Pittsburgh PA, 15212). 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John R. Gerlach, please visit our floral store.