Robert "Bob" John Lerch

Robert “Bob” John Lerch, born October 17, 1951 in Washington D.C., of Fredericksburg, VA, peacefully passed away on June 9th, 2026, lovingly surrounded by his immediate family. Bob was the beloved husband of Gail Dillon Lerch for over 54 years and father of three children: Katharine DeSarno (Michael), Ryan Lerch (Julie), and Christine Gayoso (José). He was also a proud grandfather of five: Vincent DeSarno, Francesca DeSarno, Trevor Lerch, Alexander Gayoso & Rosanna Gayoso. Born the youngest of 5 children to Howard and Edna Lerch, Bob is predeceased by Howard Lerch, Jr., and survived by Elaine Bassford, William Lerch, Sr., and Alice Payne. Bob grew up in Davidsonville, MD and later moved to Bristow, VA. He resided in Virginia the rest of his life. Bob graduated from The Bullis School in 1970, and shortly after started his employment in the family business at Mazo-Lerch, Inc. in Alexandria, VA. Working his way up from a truck driver to President of Mazo Lerch Food Service, Bob was especially skilled with understanding all the different facets of the business and making all employees feel valued. He was well-liked, facilitated modern upgrades, and showed dedication to the company throughout his career. One of Bob and Gail’s favorite things to do together was explore the world and taste all the cultural foods from all over. They had so many adventures including paraponting in New Zealand, voyaging over a month in Australia, polar bear plunging in Antarctica, enjoying lunch on top of the Eiffel Tower, sunbathing in the Caribbean, riding camels in Morocco, and too many more to count. They created so many wonderful memories with their travel passion. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Bob volunteered countless hours with Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Explorer troops, and various conservation groups over the years, influencing hundreds of young lives. He also was a regular blood donor, accruing over 10 gallons donated over his lifetime. Bob also enjoyed hunting, hiking, fishing, playing golf, and spending time at his retreat in Paw Paw, West Virginia. After retirement, Bob volunteered at various golf courses, participated in many card groups, and enjoyed social activities at his Celebrate community in Fredericksburg, VA. Those who knew Bob will remember his devilish quick wit, dedication to family, and his love of the outdoors. Bob will be so deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, and colleagues. A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25th at Pierce Funeral Home in Manassas, VA from 10-12 pm. A reception will follow at Dominion Valley Country Club in Haymarket, VA from 1-3:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Friends of the Rappahannock at riverfriends.org or the Red Cross at redcross.org

Robert "Bob" John Lerch

October 17, 1951 - June 9, 2026