David “Big Daddy" Gerlach
David “Big Daddy" Gerlach, 74, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2026. To know Dave was to know that life isn't measured by years, but by the people you meet and the stories you collect along the way. If anyone ever lived nine lives, it was Dave, each chapter bringing new adventures, lifelong friendships, and people he loved deeply.
Born on February 15, 1952, Dave never did anything halfway. He collected stories the way some people collect souvenirs, and if you were lucky enough to spend time with him, chances are you heard more than a few of them. Whether they were completely accurate or had grown just a little with each telling was beside the point, they were his stories, and he told them well.
Dave was known for many things, but among the most memorable were his random potato deliveries, his endless stories, his larger-than-life personality, and the love he had for his family. You never quite knew when he might show up with a bag of potatoes just because he thought of you. It was one of those wonderfully "Big Daddy" things that became part of who he was and one of the countless reasons he'll be remembered with a smile.
He is survived by his children, Zach, Alissa, and Mason; and by the grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy, Kadince, Parker, Cameron, Gunnar, and Wyatt. His legacy lives on in each of them, in every family gathering, every shared meal, every story retold, and every laugh that reminds us of him.
While our hearts are heavy, we know Dave would rather be remembered with smiles than tears. So tell one of his stories, surprise someone with an unexpected act of kindness (or even a bag of potatoes), hug the people you love, and remember the man who truly lived life to the fullest.
A celebration of Dave's life will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Three Lakes Evangelical Free Church. Family and friends are invited to gather beginning at 2:00 p.m., with the memorial service starting at 2:30 p.m.
Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com
