Born August 14, 1946 in Fremont, Oh., he was a 1965 graduate of Groveport High School and attended Ohio University. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and was a former deputy for the Franklin County Sheriff's Department. He was a retired Learjet Pilot and former flight instructor, was an accomplished painter of aviation, and was an avid motorcyclist.

Survived by his wife of 40 years, Cheryl Gerhold; son, Rich (Fariaty) Gerhold, Columbus; parents, Melvin and Catherine Gerhold, Groveport; sisters, Peg Herdman, Groveport, Valerie Gerhold, Virginia, June Gerhold, Groveport; brothers, Mike (Terri) Gerhold, Florida, Jim (Peggy) Gerhold, Lancaster; father- and mother-in-law, Jim and Mary Webb, Canal Winchester; many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Friends may visit 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday at Groveport Zion Lutheran Church, 6014 Groveport Road, Groveport, where a memorial service will follow at 1 p.m. with Pastor Robert Spicer, officiating. Friends who wish may donate to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, 5008 Pine Creek Dr., Suite A, Westerville, Oh. 43081 in Rich's memory.

Arrangements by DWAYNE R. SPENCE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, Pickerington. Online condolences at www.spencefuneralhome.com.