John F. Gerhold, retired engraver
John F. Gerhold of Rehoboth Beach, formerly of Washington, D.C., passed away Sunday, April 26, 2015, at Beebe Healthcare, Lewes.
John was born in Washington, D.C., the son of the late George C. and Edna V. (Drury) Gerhold. He was a photo engraver. He began his trade working for Judd & Detwiler then continued his career with Rex Engraving, both in Washington, D.C., for 25 years. He then established and operated his own business known as Washington Engraving for several years before retiring in 1989.
John was a member of Reformation Lutheran Church in Milford. He loved to work, but enjoyed woodworking in his spare time.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant daughter Robin Ann Gerhold; his grandson William Carl Ritter; a sister Helen Mae Coker; and a brother George C. Gerhold.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64-and-a-half years, Shirley Gerhold; one son, John Steven Gerhold and his wife Susan Lynn of Rehoboth Beach; two daughters, Karen Lynn Ritter of St. Leonard, Md. and Melissa Sue Stuart and her husband, Brian of Drum Point, Md.; one brother, Lee D. Gerhold; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 30, at Reformation Lutheran Church, 613 Lakeview Ave., Milford, where a viewing will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, May 1, at Washington National Cemetery, 4101 Suitland Road, Suitland, Md.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 15120, Chicago, IL 60693. Arrangements by Lofland Funeral Home, Milford.
