Walter Gerich
Walter Raymond Gerich, “Lou”, 96, of Annapolis, MD, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at Baywoods of Annapolis on Wednesday, February 8, 2017. He is survived by his sister, Elizabeth (“Betty”) Tutwiler; his three sons; Michael David, Mark Raymond and Martin William; one daughter, Michele (Gerich) Doyel; and two granddaughters; Ginger Marie Doyel and Cathleen Michele Doyel. He was predeceased by his wife of 66 years, Mignon (Jenkins) Gerich; and his brother Josesph Gerich.
Lou was born June 12, 1920, to the late Joseph and Elizabeth Gerich of Wilkinsburg, PA. He spent his early years in Wilkinsburg and graduated from Carlyle Academy. His higher education began at the Citadel where he spent three years before being appointed to the United States Naval Academy. While at the academy Lou was appointed a Batallion Commander and graduated with the Class of 1945.
A member of “The Greatest Generation,” he was a World War II Navy veteran, serving on the USS Lyman K. Swenson in the Pacific Theater. During the war he participated in seven major Naval campaigns.
After returning home from the war, Lou was selected to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the Naval Engineering Masters program. After graduating from MIT Lou taught complex variable mathematics for the Univ. of Virginia while stationed at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. He went on to become a Vice President for Maryland Shipbuilding & Drydock in Baltimore, MD, before becoming the U.S. Representative for both North and South America for Thyssen/Rheinstahl Nordseewerke Shipbuilding in Emden, Germany. He later became the North American Director of Blohm & Voss, Hamburg, Germany.
Lou’s passion for life was the source of many adventures for his wife and himself. While at the Citadel he took private pilot lessons and was highlighted in the newspaper for having flown under a local bridge. Though not in the cockpit, his passion for flight continued throughout his life and together with Non he traveled extensively throughout Europe and South America where they developed their shared love of Brazilian music. He was an avid reader. While not travelling, he could be found at his home in Annapolis with a good book and one of his many dachshunds by his side. A true gentleman, Lou’s humble spirit and compassionate ways will be missed by all.
The family would like to extend our sincerest appreciation to all Lou’s caring professionals from both Baywoods of Annapolis and the Four Seasons chapter of Hospice.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 15 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at John M. Taylor Funeral Home, 147 Duke of Gloucester St., Annapolis, MD. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 16 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Chapel, U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD. Father Eric Hoog (ex USN), a close friend, will officiate. The burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by John M. Taylor Funeral Home.
5 Entries
February 16, 2017
William Evans III
Was an honor and privilege to have as a neighbor. Very kind and knowledgeable and helped influence my life in so many positive ways as I grew up. My thoughts and prayers are with the family!
February 15, 2017
Nancy Thompson
Lou was a gentle & kind man who loved children & dogs. My 5 year old granddaughter, Sydney, and Bichon Frise, Chloe, knew he would always have a treat waiting for them. He never stopped impacting all those he came in contact with & we are so blessed to have known him.
We pray his family feels The Lord's Love & Strength for them.
February 10, 2017
Joel Barries
Walter was a charming gentleman. I had the opportunity to visit him along with my good friend, his son, Michael.The world is a better place for his being here.
Joel and Sheri Barries
February 9, 2017
A M
What a robust, intelligent and friendly man.
I'm happy to have had some time with Walter in visits along with Mike.
Albert Marsico
February 9, 2017
Walter enjoyed a good long, long life. So many cannot say the same. He was especially strong. Ps. 90:10
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