Obituary of Gerald G. Lash

Gerald George “Gerry” Lash passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Friday, January 20, 2023 at Chilton Hospital in Pequannock. He had shared 87 years of faith, love, and service with his family and friends.

Born and raised in Denville to the late Joseph and Elizabeth Lash, he was one of two boys to bless their household. After graduating from Dover High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Gerry proudly served our country for 4 years prior to his honorable discharge. Always a hard and dedicated worker, he began his occupation as a Carpenter before finding his purpose in education and technology. He earned a BS and two Master Degree’s in Mathematics from both William Paterson University and Montclair University. Gerry began his new life venture in training and enlightenment at Morris Knolls High School and continued his career at Wayne Valley High School as Chairman of the Math Department. During his 35-year career in education, he taught Calculus, was the Administrator of Computer Science, and was instrumental in creating their computer programs; he loved teaching the most. Gerry was a member of the Denville Main Street Volunteer Fire Department where he served on the Rescue Squad, was an instructor at the fire school, and past Chief.

Gerry was truly a remarkable man. He always beat to his own drum and lived his life to the fullest. He was always on the move, making the world a better place. In 1983, he moved into his forever home that he had constructed from the ground up in less than two years. He also kept busy clearing out the mountain that was his front yard and turning it into art with beautiful layers and rock walls. He loved gardening plants as well as vegetables. Gerry made a delicious homemade soup and stuffed pepper from items in his garden. He loved to travel and explore all this world had to offer. He loved skiing and golf! At Passaic County Golf League, he was a coach and even won championships. When he put his mind to something, he gave it his all. Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we are grateful to have known such a pure, generous, smart, unique man.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of his beloved wife, Margaret L. Lash; his loving children, Cynthia (Philip) Tripken, Jacqueline (Kenneth) Idler, Gerald (Julie) Lash, Jr., and Garret Lash and their Mom, Barbara; his cherished grandchildren, Alexandra, Derek, Ethan, Hannah, Gerald George Lash III, Joseph, and Borden; his adored great-grandchild, Addison; his caring brother, Norman (Alicia) Lash; and many dear extended family and friends.

Public Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 26^th from 4 – 7 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. Funeral Service will take place on Friday, January 27^th at 10 am at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Denville Cemetery in Denville. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Gerry’s memory would be appreciated to either the Denville Fire Department, 2 Indian Road, Denville, NJ 07834 or plant a tree in his memory, two things near and dear to his heart. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Gerald here to continue to celebrate his incredible life.