Eric W. Gerlach, 75, Town of Lincoln, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at Marshfield Medical Center in the embrace of his family.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Rembs Funeral Home, Marshfield with visitation from 9:00 am until the time of service. Deacon Ray Draeger will officiate. A livestream of the service will be available on Eric’s obituary page at rembsfh.com. Burial will follow at Corpus Christi Cemetery, Bakerville.

Eric was born on March 28, 1951 in Marshfield to Reuel and Gladys (Germeroth) Gerlach. He was member of the first graduating class at the new Marshfield Senior High School in 1969 where he excelled as a wrestler and football player. He was also part of the first class of the Mid State Farmer Short Course. On July 30, 1977, he was united in marriage to Julianne Weix in Colby.

Eric was a lifelong farmer who dedicated much of his life to service - including caring for animals, spending time as Fire Chief for the Town of Lincoln, and as an active member of the Jaycees. He also belonged to the Central Wisconsin Wine Club where he made prize winning wine.

Eric was known for the phrases: “You can’t always afford something new, so need to fix what you have.” and “Today is guaranteed but tomorrow is not.”

In his younger years, he enjoyed playing slow-pitch softball and found joy in life’s simple pleasures - hunting, fishing, boating, and especially spending time with his children and grandchildren. Whether it was taking them out for ice cream, sharing his talents in woodworking and wine making, or simply watching them play sports, those moments meant the most to him. He always wanted the farm to be carried on to the next generation, so he was very proud when Melissa, Michael, and his grandchildren took it over.

He is survived by his loving wife, Julianne, children: Melissa (Michael) Hanke, Angela Gerlach, Katie (Josh) Bernecker, and Chad (Cindy) Gerlach.

He was a proud grandfather to Madison, Marvin, Maverick, and Manning Hanke, Grace and Henry Bernecker, and Sampson, Caleb, and Bella Gerlach.

He is also survived by his siblings: Joann (Tom) Wilson, Louise (Wayne) Tesmer, David (Carol) Gerlach, Kathy Freund, and Connie (George) Jones.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Evan Gerlach.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be designated at a later date.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Yaboah, the nurses in the ICU, and oncology social worker Kim Heeg at the Marshfield Medical Center for their wonderful care.

Condolences may be sent online at www.rembsfh.com