Goshen, IN - Robert Donald Lerch age 91, of Goshen, formerly of Pocatello, Idaho and Jackson, Wyoming, passed peacefully on Oct. 28.

He was born on May 23, 1934, to John W. and Clara Ellen Meyer Lerch in Wooster, Ohio.

He married Annabelle L. Stuckey in 1957; and they were blessed with four children, Robbin, Laura, Bob, and Barbara.

Education was important throughout Bob's life. He earned a BA at Goshen College, MA at BGSU and EdD at New Mexico State University. His teaching career grew from Junior High students to being an Education professor and Department Chair at Idaho State University.

Bob and Annabelle moved to Jackson, Wyoming for retirement. His love of storytelling and teaching helped Bob be an informative and energetic tour guide of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Moving to Greencroft Communities in Goshen in 2010, they enjoyed time with grandchildren who were studying at Goshen College and widened their circle of friends.

Bob and Annabelle were always a part of a vibrant church community. Bob served as a Presbyterian Elder and a member of the Session in Pocatello and Jackson Hole and was an active member at Eighth Street Mennonite Church in Goshen.

Bob is remembered for his ability to fix almost anything from cars to household items. When he was no longer able to use his tools, he gave them to his grandsons and granddaughters. Many of them inherited his curly hair and his innate ability for repairing.

His hobbies included fixing antique glassware (Dr. Bob's Glass Repair) at shows where Annabelle sold antiques and collecting toy trains. Friends and family enjoyed his train displays. Bob was still building 0 gauge train engines and test tracks at age 90.

He is survived by four children, Robbin O'Leary (Mike), Laura Lerch Horst (Randy), Robert A. Lerch (Jennifer), and Barbara Weaver (Mark); 8 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Annabelle; and by his parents; and siblings, John Lerch and Patricia Lerch Hostetter.

Visitation will be Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home, Goshen. A memorial service will take place Sunday, November 16, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen; Https://vimeo.com/event/5489161/4199f36bca .

Send memorials to Eighth Street Mennonite Church, Goshen College Alumni Scholarship Fund, Mennonite Central Committee, or the Greencroft Foundation.