menu

Subscribe to Obituary List

Celebrating the life of

John Derrick Gatch

March 20, 1970 - March 24, 2008

John Derrick Gatch

JOHN DERRICK GATCH

John Derrick Gatch 38, died Monday, March 24, 2008 at Candler Hospital. John was a native and lifelong resident of Savannah. He graduated from Memorial Day School and John Marshall Law School, Magna Cum Laude. John was a member of the Georgia Bar Association and was a former Juvenile Court Judge, Pro Tem.

Surviving are, his daughter, Morgan Erin Gatch of Savannah, his mother, Janice Tillman Karrh and husband Bruce of Savannah, his father, Derrick Gatch of Savannah, his sisters, Tammy G. Teston and husband Ronnie of Midway and Allyson G. Tuck of Savannah; his brother, Ryan S. Gatch of Savannah, his fiancé, Maggie McCain of Savannah, his paternal grandparents, Elmer and Catherine Gatch of Savannah, his nephews, Brooks Gatch and Christopher Tuck. Also surviving are a number of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Joey White, Mike Smith, Hal Shuman, Matt Weeks, Ronnie Akins and Miles Glisson.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 26, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors Hodgson Chapel.

Graveside Services will be Thursday, March 27, 2008 at 11 a.m. in the Greenwich Section of Bonaventure Cemetery.

FOX AND WEEKS FUNERAL DIRECTORS HODGSON CHAPEL

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

Image
Submissions protected by Kanshi.

GUEST BOOK

John, I know you are in a much better place now and i will miss you dearly. It was time for you to go home and be happy and i know thats exactly what you are. You were very strong for so long. You have touched many peoples hearts with your strength and courage. I love you John and think about you all the time. We will see eachother again one day. <3you, Christy

- Christy Connelly Greathouse, Savannah, GA

Even though were not married, I consider my self a part of your family. I miss John more than you will ever know. I love you and I love knowing that John is finally at peace.

- Maggie, Savannah, GA

Big John' My Buddy~ may you rest in peace and no longer endure the pain and frustration of your courageous battle. You have raised a beautiful smart little lady in MEG and I am quite sure will carry your legacy proudly. Till i see you again.... I will miss you and all the fun times we had. Your Pal~ Trent

- Trent Rogers, jupiter, FL

OH HOW I LONG TO SEE THOSE BLUE EYES JUST ONE MORE TIME. TO LOOK INTO THEM AND SEE SUCH STRENGTH AND LOVE. I MISS YOU LITTLE BROTHER AND I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. BUT, I KNOW YOU ARE AT PEACE NOW AND ALL YOUR PAIN IS GONE. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE THE STORIES YOU, MAMAW AND POPPY ARE SHARING. DANCE BABY DANCE! I LOVE YOU! 'BIG SIS'

- Tammy, Midway, GA

Janice, Our heartfelt sympathy is with you and the Family. Please know that we are thinking of you all at this sad time and hope it won't be too long before you can remember the good times with John without so much pain.

- Eleanor & Jack Kiel, Savannah, GA

May the thoughts and prayers of those who love you comfort you at this time of sorrow. Thinking of you, Heather West

- Heather West, Savannah, GA

Janice, Our hearts go out to you for your loss. John was a kind, caring person with a big smile. We will keep you in our prayers. Sandie and David

- Sandra Harn, Savannah, GA

Janice, Derrick and all the Gatch family, Please know that all of you are in our hearts and prayers at this time of your tremendous loss. God bless. Bennie and Emery Smith Jennifer and Susan

- Emery and Bennie Smith, Savannah, GA

To the entire Gatch Family. Daddy and I have you in our thoughts and prayers at your time of loss. May God keep you in the palm of his hand and help you in the days ahead.

- Everett Groover and Mary Lynn Hinely, Hinesville, GA

Janice and Family,our deepest sympathy.You are in our prayers.

- Tom and Judy Mahoney, Savannah, GA

I am deeply sorry for your loss. John was always a great and funny guy to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

- Misty Mataxas, Savannah, GA

my prayers are with john's family. john was a fine young lawyer with an unlimited future his death leaves us all empty terry jackson

- g.terry jackson, savannah, GA

Its been years since I have seen John! I remember going to Meg's house and spending the night. Its been a very long time since I've seen her too, in fact. John was a great man. He was funny, and a very nice guy. I know that he was a good father to Meg. She adored her daddy a lot. I'm sure he will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. We will all see him again one day. Until then, lets not grieve. Thats just something we all get to look foward too. I will be praying for Meg, especially, and of course John's family and friends.

- Shannon Caldwell, Bloomingdale, GA

To The Gatch Family, May God presence you with strength in this time of need. May he grace you with peace and serenity knowing that John is in a better place out of pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you. To John kiddo, I will never forget your strength and your sense of humor. You brought so much joy to our family on many of occasions. Many laughs were shared for I could never forget your laugh. I will never forget the story you often shared about 'Bill' and in your first time of meeting him. John, Thank you for sharing you life with us. I will always keep you in my heart and will always treasure every memory. You are with God now and he needs you to help him keep everyone in line. Always, 'Gina Ria'

- Gina Lynch, Savannah, GA

Janice, Derrick and family, I am certain it has been 30 years since I last saw any of you. However I remember John-John and his little boy antics. Lots of time has gone by since I left Glenbrook Rd. Charlie called me to tell me about John-John. I am sorry to hear about his death. When my parents died Artie and Betty Atkinsonmany years ago, my faith kept me strong as I hope yours will do for you. Please hug Tammy and the twins for me. I remember when the twins were born, and how much I enjoyed going to your house to see them. God Bless each of you. Jan

- Janice Atkinson Martin, Statesboro, GA

Derrick, We are there for you,in the short time we have known you,...you have always been a gracious guest in our home.We pray your emptyness is filled with the Hope that only our Lord can provide. David and Sheryl Baldwin

- David Sheryl Baldwin, Savannah, GA

My heart goes out to all the Gatches and especially to my dear niece,Meg.... John was so good about keeping in touch with me after my mother,Kate, died. He loved my brother,Jerry, and my mother. Every month or so I would get a call and we would talk about the old times and tricks my brother and he would play. We would laugh so hard and it was good to hear him laugh because I knew the pain he was in. His last phone call was a little over a week ago and he was very sad about his grandmother. However,before we hung up we were laughing about so many times that were good memories in his life. I always knew that if I needed him, he would be there in a heartbeat. So......Aunt Roberta and Uncle Barry are among the many people who loved John, who will miss him, and who hope he is now ,at peace, no more pain. Roberta and Barry Bonwit

- Roberta Bonwit, Pensacola, FL

Don't know where to begin, I know John could be stubborn but he was only that way because he knew you would always be there for him, no matter how bad it got. He knew that all of you loved him!!!! God knows you have proven that time and time again. He will always be in my heart and he will be watching over all of us. If you ever need John's opinion all you have to do is talk to him, he may not be able to answer but he will always be listening. I Love All of You, Eileen

- Eileen Stephens, Savannah, GA

With the passing of John, the world has lost a light it will never see again. With so many talents and abilities and the unlimited potential, it is often difficult to understand the trials and tribulations John endured. It is said that as you travel life's many highways and byways you are truly blessed if you can fill by counting on one hand those you would consider to be true friends and I have now lost one of mine. I love you John.

- JASON L. BOWMAN, MARIETTA, GA

Meg and the Gatch Family, Sorry to hear about your lose, Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if we can do anything.

- Keith Davis, Midway, GA

Meg, I know you are going through a really rough point in time.I just want you to think about what your dad would want you to do and he's watching you every step of the way.Well, my family and I love you and you are welcome any time. Stay strong, Allison

- Allison Lane, Midway, GA

Meg and The Gatch Family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. I can not imagine your sorrow but know that we love you and are here for you. Take care and believe that God has a plan and a reason. LOVE YOU, Kimberly Hock

- Kimberly Hock, Richmond Hill, GA

Hey meg When i heard about your dad i was totally shocked! Aliison told me. Your really strong to be dealing with something like this a such a young age.I know i could never do this. Hurry up so you can come back to track practice! Just kidding love yeh i said 'love' Chelsea Kennedy

- Chelsea Kennedy, Hinesville, GA

Hey Meg. How u doin? I wish you would come to the track meet thursday, but we will understand if you can't come. Hey our team in P.E. isn't as good without you. Hey it wasn't until just now that I relized that you is in all of my classes! well talk to ytou when you come back hope you feel better bye!

- Jaleel Menifee, Hinesville, GA

Meg, I am so sorry for your loss. I know it may be hard for you to lose someone so close to you. But like i said, i wish i could tell you i feel your pain, but i just can't. I haven't expirienced that type of pain. I know you're hurting. I know you may feel that there is nothing to live for in this lifetime. But never give up hope. Everything happens for a reason. And you know, your Daddy is in a better place now. He's in a place where there are no problems in the world. A place where happiness is the only emotion he can feel anymore. And though he's not 'with' you anymore, he's still there. He's still in your heart, thoughts, and soul. Though you can't see or feel him, he's always going to be there with you. Now you can say you have a gardian angel. It's your Daddy. He'll never leave you. I'll never leave you. call me anytime you want to talk, cry, laugh, be angry, beat me up. anything. I'll be there for you, through thick and thin. You'll ALWAYS have me to lean on. I love you with all my heart Meg. Stay strong. Take care. I love you. your best friend, Kelly McCall

- Kelly McCall, Hinesville, GA

To Meg: Meg, Meg, Meg. I am really sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved father and the other relative of yours that died. I know how it is to lose a loved one back to back. Twice as many faces, twice as many places to go... its very hard to do and see TWO people laying there. Please do remember that you do have people you can talk to including me. Meg please don't do anything crazy. You can talk to us. You don't have to take it out on yourself. It is not your fault. God does these things for a reason. When He closes a door, He opens a window!!! Love You Atria Holmes

- Atria Holmes, Midway, GA

To the Gatch family I spoke to John just 3 weeks ago, I hardly recogized him because he sounded so strong. He was always a fighter in spite of his disease-I never knew a stronger man. He was my friend and I will miss him. May he rest in peace.

- Steve Carter, Conyers, GA

All of the Chatham County Deputies at the Juvenile Court will miss you. We will continue to remember such a bright and vibrant young Pro-Tem Judge. We will remember your smile as you greeted all citizens, races, and genders, thereby, offering each of them an opportunity to communicate freely and without shame. Your leadership and courage will always be sealed in our hearts forever. Your Juvenile Court Deputies, Family, and Friends.

- Juvenile Court Deputies, Savannah, GA

On behalf of all Ceres Marine Terminals employees, we want to send our deepest sympathy to the Gatch family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

- J. Bradley Ziegler, Savannah, GA

Janice, My heart goes out to you. I am so sorry for this loss on top of just losing your mother. I cannot comprehend the pain of the loss of your child. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jenny Jordan O'Neal

- Virginia J. O'Neal, Acworth, GA

So sorry to learn of your loss. My heart goes out to the family during this difficult time. Anthony cousin

- Anthony Gatch, Lilburn, GA

To The Gatch Family I'm so sorry to hear about John. He was such a great person. I will always remember his sense of humor that could brighten up a room in seconds, and a laugh that was contagious. John was such a good friend, and I will miss him very much. I feel so blessed to have known someone as wonderful as him. God bless you all, and may you be comforted by fond memories of the Son, Grandson, Brother, Dad, Uncle, Cousin, Fiance, and Friend that he was to everyone. Yours in Paryer, Brenda Lynch Meyers

- Brenda Lynch Meyers, Savannah, GA

Hi daddy, i dont really know what to say i love you so much and not having you here to hug me hurts. It was only two days ago you threw ice water on me while i was tanning. I know you are in a better place now and you dont hurt or cry or go to the hosspital or get angry and for that i am grateful. However, im really really really gonna miss you, you were a great dad and im lucky have had you for so long but i know you need to leave and go back to poppy and everyone so im telling you to go. Daddy be happy be free, go play football, go on the boat, eat corn anything i love you and you are still in my heart always and forever. I love you daddy and i will be okay, you can go home now daddy i love you. MEG gatch

- meg gatch, midway, GA

Bub, I love you and miss you so much. You were a wonderful BIG brother and I will always cherish the memories we had growing up. Best of all.... the time we snuck the chocolate chip cookies and tried to get into the attic before we got caught. And mom was right behind us the whole time!!! We all had so many fun times together. I know you are now singing and dancing with Mamaw and Poppy and Jerry too. You are in a much better place. No more suffering. I will never forget the times we had. I could not have asked for a better bigger brother. I love you! Love, Little sis 'Mookie'

- Allyson, Savannah, GA

Janice, I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine what you are feeling.Please know that my prayers are with you and your family. Barrie

- Barrie Ruland, Savannah, GA

It is so hard to put these feelings into words. The last few years of Johns life put him through more than a lot of people could have taken. His sence of hummor and strong will made him quite a character, one that will be with us forever....The John Gatch that is in our memories goes well beyond a disease,he was a friend, a father and someone who just wanted to enjoy life. It seems so unfair that his peace means so much hurt for people close to him, but the best thing we can do is charish and hold the good memories in our hearts. MEG, and the rest of the Gatch family, our prayers our with you. We will miss you John......love Chris and Nancy Laufenberg

- Christopher Laufenberg, savannah, GA

Our deepest sympathies are with Derek and his family. Barry Shuman

- Barry Shuman, Lake Mary, FL

Gatch Family- We are very sad to hear the news of John's passing. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Megan and Dean Kicklighter

- Megan Kicklighter, Pooler, GA

John, I know you are in a much better place now and i will miss you dearly. It was time for you to go home and be happy and i know thats exactly what you are. You were very strong for so long. You have touched many peoples hearts with your strength and courage. I love you John and think about you all the time. We will see eachother again one day. <3you, Christy

- Christy Connelly Greathouse, Savannah, GA

Even though were not married, I consider my self a part of your family. I miss John more than you will ever know. I love you and I love knowing that John is finally at peace.

- Maggie, Savannah, GA

Big John' My Buddy~ may you rest in peace and no longer endure the pain and frustration of your courageous battle. You have raised a beautiful smart little lady in MEG and I am quite sure will carry your legacy proudly. Till i see you again.... I will miss you and all the fun times we had. Your Pal~ Trent

- Trent Rogers, jupiter, FL

OH HOW I LONG TO SEE THOSE BLUE EYES JUST ONE MORE TIME. TO LOOK INTO THEM AND SEE SUCH STRENGTH AND LOVE. I MISS YOU LITTLE BROTHER AND I LOVE YOU SO MUCH. BUT, I KNOW YOU ARE AT PEACE NOW AND ALL YOUR PAIN IS GONE. I CAN ONLY IMAGINE THE STORIES YOU, MAMAW AND POPPY ARE SHARING. DANCE BABY DANCE! I LOVE YOU! 'BIG SIS'

- Tammy, Midway, GA

Janice, Our heartfelt sympathy is with you and the Family. Please know that we are thinking of you all at this sad time and hope it won't be too long before you can remember the good times with John without so much pain.

- Eleanor & Jack Kiel, Savannah, GA

May the thoughts and prayers of those who love you comfort you at this time of sorrow. Thinking of you, Heather West

- Heather West, Savannah, GA

Janice, Our hearts go out to you for your loss. John was a kind, caring person with a big smile. We will keep you in our prayers. Sandie and David

- Sandra Harn, Savannah, GA

Janice, Derrick and all the Gatch family, Please know that all of you are in our hearts and prayers at this time of your tremendous loss. God bless. Bennie and Emery Smith Jennifer and Susan

- Emery and Bennie Smith, Savannah, GA

To the entire Gatch Family. Daddy and I have you in our thoughts and prayers at your time of loss. May God keep you in the palm of his hand and help you in the days ahead.

- Everett Groover and Mary Lynn Hinely, Hinesville, GA

Janice and Family,our deepest sympathy.You are in our prayers.

- Tom and Judy Mahoney, Savannah, GA

I am deeply sorry for your loss. John was always a great and funny guy to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

- Misty Mataxas, Savannah, GA

my prayers are with john's family. john was a fine young lawyer with an unlimited future his death leaves us all empty terry jackson

- g.terry jackson, savannah, GA

Its been years since I have seen John! I remember going to Meg's house and spending the night. Its been a very long time since I've seen her too, in fact. John was a great man. He was funny, and a very nice guy. I know that he was a good father to Meg. She adored her daddy a lot. I'm sure he will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. We will all see him again one day. Until then, lets not grieve. Thats just something we all get to look foward too. I will be praying for Meg, especially, and of course John's family and friends.

- Shannon Caldwell, Bloomingdale, GA

To The Gatch Family, May God presence you with strength in this time of need. May he grace you with peace and serenity knowing that John is in a better place out of pain. My thoughts and prayers are with you. To John kiddo, I will never forget your strength and your sense of humor. You brought so much joy to our family on many of occasions. Many laughs were shared for I could never forget your laugh. I will never forget the story you often shared about 'Bill' and in your first time of meeting him. John, Thank you for sharing you life with us. I will always keep you in my heart and will always treasure every memory. You are with God now and he needs you to help him keep everyone in line. Always, 'Gina Ria'

- Gina Lynch, Savannah, GA

Janice, Derrick and family, I am certain it has been 30 years since I last saw any of you. However I remember John-John and his little boy antics. Lots of time has gone by since I left Glenbrook Rd. Charlie called me to tell me about John-John. I am sorry to hear about his death. When my parents died Artie and Betty Atkinsonmany years ago, my faith kept me strong as I hope yours will do for you. Please hug Tammy and the twins for me. I remember when the twins were born, and how much I enjoyed going to your house to see them. God Bless each of you. Jan

- Janice Atkinson Martin, Statesboro, GA

Derrick, We are there for you,in the short time we have known you,...you have always been a gracious guest in our home.We pray your emptyness is filled with the Hope that only our Lord can provide. David and Sheryl Baldwin

- David Sheryl Baldwin, Savannah, GA

My heart goes out to all the Gatches and especially to my dear niece,Meg.... John was so good about keeping in touch with me after my mother,Kate, died. He loved my brother,Jerry, and my mother. Every month or so I would get a call and we would talk about the old times and tricks my brother and he would play. We would laugh so hard and it was good to hear him laugh because I knew the pain he was in. His last phone call was a little over a week ago and he was very sad about his grandmother. However,before we hung up we were laughing about so many times that were good memories in his life. I always knew that if I needed him, he would be there in a heartbeat. So......Aunt Roberta and Uncle Barry are among the many people who loved John, who will miss him, and who hope he is now ,at peace, no more pain. Roberta and Barry Bonwit

- Roberta Bonwit, Pensacola, FL

Don't know where to begin, I know John could be stubborn but he was only that way because he knew you would always be there for him, no matter how bad it got. He knew that all of you loved him!!!! God knows you have proven that time and time again. He will always be in my heart and he will be watching over all of us. If you ever need John's opinion all you have to do is talk to him, he may not be able to answer but he will always be listening. I Love All of You, Eileen

- Eileen Stephens, Savannah, GA

With the passing of John, the world has lost a light it will never see again. With so many talents and abilities and the unlimited potential, it is often difficult to understand the trials and tribulations John endured. It is said that as you travel life's many highways and byways you are truly blessed if you can fill by counting on one hand those you would consider to be true friends and I have now lost one of mine. I love you John.

- JASON L. BOWMAN, MARIETTA, GA

I've talked to John a few times concerning the disease we have in common Crohn's and it always made me feel better knowing there was someone nearby who actually KNOWS EXACTLY what I'm going through;the pain involved w/Crohn's and the 'little looks'& comments we hear bc we 'don't look sick' when we are.I pray for all who love you, John. Your family feels incomplete w/o you among them. They've lost a son, brother,cousin, daddy, best friend & more and our hearts go out to all of your loved ones.Godspeed John!

- Kenny & Dianne Farrow, Savannah, GA

Meg and the Gatch Family, Sorry to hear about your lose, Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if we can do anything.

- Keith Davis, Midway, GA

Meg, I know you are going through a really rough point in time.I just want you to think about what your dad would want you to do and he's watching you every step of the way.Well, my family and I love you and you are welcome any time. Stay strong, Allison

- Allison Lane, Midway, GA

Meg and The Gatch Family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. I can not imagine your sorrow but know that we love you and are here for you. Take care and believe that God has a plan and a reason. LOVE YOU, Kimberly Hock

- Kimberly Hock, Richmond Hill, GA

Hey meg When i heard about your dad i was totally shocked! Aliison told me. Your really strong to be dealing with something like this a such a young age.I know i could never do this. Hurry up so you can come back to track practice! Just kidding love yeh i said 'love' Chelsea Kennedy

- Chelsea Kennedy, Hinesville, GA

Hey Meg. How u doin? I wish you would come to the track meet thursday, but we will understand if you can't come. Hey our team in P.E. isn't as good without you. Hey it wasn't until just now that I relized that you is in all of my classes! well talk to ytou when you come back hope you feel better bye!

- Jaleel Menifee, Hinesville, GA

Meg, I am so sorry for your loss. I know it may be hard for you to lose someone so close to you. But like i said, i wish i could tell you i feel your pain, but i just can't. I haven't expirienced that type of pain. I know you're hurting. I know you may feel that there is nothing to live for in this lifetime. But never give up hope. Everything happens for a reason. And you know, your Daddy is in a better place now. He's in a place where there are no problems in the world. A place where happiness is the only emotion he can feel anymore. And though he's not 'with' you anymore, he's still there. He's still in your heart, thoughts, and soul. Though you can't see or feel him, he's always going to be there with you. Now you can say you have a gardian angel. It's your Daddy. He'll never leave you. I'll never leave you. call me anytime you want to talk, cry, laugh, be angry, beat me up. anything. I'll be there for you, through thick and thin. You'll ALWAYS have me to lean on. I love you with all my heart Meg. Stay strong. Take care. I love you. your best friend, Kelly McCall

- Kelly McCall, Hinesville, GA

To Meg: Meg, Meg, Meg. I am really sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved father and the other relative of yours that died. I know how it is to lose a loved one back to back. Twice as many faces, twice as many places to go... its very hard to do and see TWO people laying there. Please do remember that you do have people you can talk to including me. Meg please don't do anything crazy. You can talk to us. You don't have to take it out on yourself. It is not your fault. God does these things for a reason. When He closes a door, He opens a window!!! Love You Atria Holmes

- Atria Holmes, Midway, GA

To the Gatch family I spoke to John just 3 weeks ago, I hardly recogized him because he sounded so strong. He was always a fighter in spite of his disease-I never knew a stronger man. He was my friend and I will miss him. May he rest in peace.

- Steve Carter, Conyers, GA

All of the Chatham County Deputies at the Juvenile Court will miss you. We will continue to remember such a bright and vibrant young Pro-Tem Judge. We will remember your smile as you greeted all citizens, races, and genders, thereby, offering each of them an opportunity to communicate freely and without shame. Your leadership and courage will always be sealed in our hearts forever. Your Juvenile Court Deputies, Family, and Friends.

- Juvenile Court Deputies, Savannah, GA

On behalf of all Ceres Marine Terminals employees, we want to send our deepest sympathy to the Gatch family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

- J. Bradley Ziegler, Savannah, GA

Janice, My heart goes out to you. I am so sorry for this loss on top of just losing your mother. I cannot comprehend the pain of the loss of your child. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jenny Jordan O'Neal

- Virginia J. O'Neal, Acworth, GA

So sorry to learn of your loss. My heart goes out to the family during this difficult time. Anthony cousin

- Anthony Gatch, Lilburn, GA

To The Gatch Family I'm so sorry to hear about John. He was such a great person. I will always remember his sense of humor that could brighten up a room in seconds, and a laugh that was contagious. John was such a good friend, and I will miss him very much. I feel so blessed to have known someone as wonderful as him. God bless you all, and may you be comforted by fond memories of the Son, Grandson, Brother, Dad, Uncle, Cousin, Fiance, and Friend that he was to everyone. Yours in Paryer, Brenda Lynch Meyers

- Brenda Lynch Meyers, Savannah, GA

Hi daddy, i dont really know what to say i love you so much and not having you here to hug me hurts. It was only two days ago you threw ice water on me while i was tanning. I know you are in a better place now and you dont hurt or cry or go to the hosspital or get angry and for that i am grateful. However, im really really really gonna miss you, you were a great dad and im lucky have had you for so long but i know you need to leave and go back to poppy and everyone so im telling you to go. Daddy be happy be free, go play football, go on the boat, eat corn anything i love you and you are still in my heart always and forever. I love you daddy and i will be okay, you can go home now daddy i love you. MEG gatch

- meg gatch, midway, GA

Bub, I love you and miss you so much. You were a wonderful BIG brother and I will always cherish the memories we had growing up. Best of all.... the time we snuck the chocolate chip cookies and tried to get into the attic before we got caught. And mom was right behind us the whole time!!! We all had so many fun times together. I know you are now singing and dancing with Mamaw and Poppy and Jerry too. You are in a much better place. No more suffering. I will never forget the times we had. I could not have asked for a better bigger brother. I love you! Love, Little sis 'Mookie'

- Allyson, Savannah, GA

Janice, I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine what you are feeling.Please know that my prayers are with you and your family. Barrie

- Barrie Ruland, Savannah, GA

It is so hard to put these feelings into words. The last few years of Johns life put him through more than a lot of people could have taken. His sence of hummor and strong will made him quite a character, one that will be with us forever....The John Gatch that is in our memories goes well beyond a disease,he was a friend, a father and someone who just wanted to enjoy life. It seems so unfair that his peace means so much hurt for people close to him, but the best thing we can do is charish and hold the good memories in our hearts. MEG, and the rest of the Gatch family, our prayers our with you. We will miss you John......love Chris and Nancy Laufenberg

- Christopher Laufenberg, savannah, GA

Our deepest sympathies are with Derek and his family. Barry Shuman

- Barry Shuman, Lake Mary, FL

Gatch Family- We are very sad to hear the news of John's passing. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Megan and Dean Kicklighter

- Megan Kicklighter, Pooler, GA

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200