Donald W. Lerch, age 86, of Lake Station, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 3, 1928 in Knoxville, Maryland to the late William and Margaret Lerch. On April 8, 1948, he married the love of his life, Clara Swire. Don retired in 1984 after 38 ½ years of working in the Billet Mill at United States Steel. He was a member of the M.L. McClelland Masonic Lodge in Hobart. He enjoyed fishing and will always be remembered as a dedicated husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Clara Lerch; sons: Alan (Vickie) Lerch, William (Linda) Lerch, James (Patricia) Lerch; 7 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; brother: James Lerch; sister: Nancy Consert.

He is preceded in death by his parents: William and Margaret Lerch; brothers: Richard Lerch, John Lerch; sisters: Joyce Lerch, Joanne Lerch.

A Masonic service will take place Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 1:00 pm followed by a traditional funeral service at approximately 1:15 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel, 600 West Old Ridge Road, Hobart. He will be laid to rest at Graceland Cemetery in Valparaiso. Visitation will be held Saturday from 10:00 am until the time of service at the funeral home. For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.