Gerald Birch

Gerald "Jerry" Lavelle Birch, 78, of Rochester, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2015 at his home from pancreatic cancer. Jerry was born July 15, 1936 in St. Paul, MN to Robert and Edna (Batterson) Birch. On May 4, 1957, in Rochester, Jerry married Rita Samuelson. He worked in general services at Mayo Clinic for 41 years and retired in 1998. Jerry coached junior bowling league, softball and was active in pool league. Jerry was also a past member of the Eagle and Elks Lodge.During his retirement, Jerry enjoyed spending time with his dog, Chubbs. Above all, he loved spending time and making memories with his family. Gerald is survived by his loving wife, Rita; daughter, Resa (Dan) Jeche of Spring Valley, MN; sons, Fred (Renae) Birch of Byron, MN and David (Brenda) Birch of Rochester; 4 grandchildren, Alex (Mallory) Birch, Lauren (Luke) Kirkham, Taylor Jeche and Nate Birch; 2 great-grandchildren, Bentley and Oakley Kirkham; 2 step-grandchildren, Ashley and Taylor Loth; brother, Jim (Special Friend-Cathy Timmerman) Birch of Rochester; sister, Janet (Jim) Conway of Chatfield, MN and numerous nieces and nephews. Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Edna. A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW., Rochester. Visitation will be held 5:00-7:00 PM Tuesday, May 19, 2015 and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com The family would like to thank Dr. Matthew Thomas, Dr. Aminah Jatoi and Mayo Hospice for the wonderful care and support they provided.