REMEMBERING DAVID GERLACH

On 2025-05-05, Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA-14) delivered a floor speech titled "REMEMBERING DAVID GERLACH" in the House.

REMEMBERING DAVID GERLACH

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 74 (Monday, May 5, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 74 (Monday, May 5, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E383] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] REMEMBERING DAVID GERLACH ______ HON. ERIC SWALWELL of california in the house of representatives Monday, May 5, 2025 Mr. SWALWELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise with my esteemed colleague from Illinois, Representative Darin LaHood, to honor the life and legacy of David ``Dave'' Gerlach, a dedicated educator, loving husband, father, and grandfather, on the occasion of his passing on March 26, 2025, at the age of 62. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1962, Dave grew up in Bethel Park alongside his brothers Jeff and Steve before moving to Fairport, New York. After graduating from Fairport High School, Dave attended SUNY Canton, where he earned his Associate of Applied Science degree in Business Administration and met his wife of 39 years, Lisa McIntosh. Dave dedicated his life to education and service, beginning as a student worker at Chaney Dining Center and rising through the ranks to become Vice President for Advancement at SUNY Canton, where he spent three decades helping to shape the college's future. His work overseeing the Canton College Foundation, Alumni and Development, Admissions, and Athletics left a lasting impact, including leading the Centennial Campaign, the most successful fundraising effort in the college's history. After completing his Ph.D. in Higher Education from Syracuse University, Dave fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming President of Lincoln College in Illinois, where he led the school through a period of growth and achievement. Even after Lincoln's closure during the pandemic, Dave's dedication to students and learning never wavered. In retirement, Dave moved to Houston to be near his beloved grandchildren, Harrison and Ruby. He was affectionately known as ``Papa,'' attending every game, concert, and school play, and building a new community of friends in Texas. Dave's legacy is one of leadership, mentorship, kindness, and unwavering commitment to family and community. His favorite Christmas movie, It's a Wonderful Life, embodied the spirit with which he lived-- showing that ``no man is a failure who has friends.'' Dave is survived by his wife Lisa, his daughter Kayla, his son Josh, and his grandchildren Harrison and Ruby. May his memory continue to inspire all who knew and loved him. ____________________