It is with great sadness that the family of Gerald "Jerry" H. Laatsch, 82, announce his passing on May 28, 2017.

Jerry of Carlisle was born May 5, 1935 in Fort Atkinson, WI to Fred and Evelyn (Lucas) Laatsch. Upon graduating high school, he enlisted in the Army where he met his first wife, Myrna (Suffel) Laatsch. He was honorably discharged in 1956 after achieving the rank of Specialist. Thereafter, he settled in the Harrisburg area raising three sons; William F. Laatsch of Mechanicsburg, Gerald H. (Kim) Laatsch, Jr. of Denver, CO and Christopher M. Laatsch of Mt. Joy.

Jerry's first career was with Capital Bakers, where he steadily rose through the ranks to the position of Harrisburg Plant Superintendent. He enjoyed a second career at Amtrak, retiring as a Track Supervisor in 1997 after 19 years of service.

His 30 year marriage to Myrna ended with her death in 1986. He was fortunate to have two loves in his life as he married Elizabeth Yount in 2004.

Jerry was loved by all who met him and most enjoyed being among family, friends and neighbors. He will be missed by this same extended family who came to love this gentle, witty and kind man. Jerry enjoyed gardening, sports and most of all making those around him laugh.

Jerry leaves loving memories to be cherished by his spouse, Elizabeth A. (Miller) Laatsch, his three sons, his stepchildren; Dean (Marlene) Yount of Boiling Springs, David Yount of Camp Hill, and Jeanne (Vince) Pocalyko of Devon, two grandchildren; Ashlee (Shane) Bumgardner of Camp Hill, Chase Miller of Middletown, one great-grandson, Abel Bumgardner, three step-grandchildren; Stephanie Straka and Rachel and Hannah Yount and three step-great-grandsons; Nathaniel and Devon Yount and Braeden Straka. He was predeceased by one sister, Marion Ringlund, one step-daughter, Joan A. Yount and one step-grandson, Matthew A. Yount.

In following Jerry's wishes, services will be private. Visit www.Since1853.com to send condolences.