KERCH – Frank P. Kerch, 72, of Northport, AL (previously of Shippensburg, PA and Somerset, PA), entered into eternal rest surrounded by his family on December 25, 2024.
Born June 27, 1952, in Somerset, son of Frank Jr. and Helen (Zurvensky) Kerch.
Survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Virginia (Ginger Deromedi) Kerch, Northport, AL; loving son Dr. Matthew and wife Dr. Cailin (Bush) Kerch, Northport, AL; and adoring grandchildren Anna Kerch, Jack Kerch, and Ava Kerch, Northport, AL, and several nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Preceded in death by father; mother; sister, Sandra Blust; infant brother, Stephen Kerch; and brother, Michael Albin.
Frank was a member of St. Francis of Assisi University Parish, Tuscaloosa, AL, and was a longtime member of Our Lady of the Visitation Church, in Shippensburg, PA, where he was actively involved as a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus.
He was a 1970 graduate of Somerset High School and a 1974 graduate of Shippensburg University with a Bachelor of Science in Education, and a Master of Education in 1978. While in college he was a standout member of the Shippensburg University Red Raider baseball team and the Shippensburg AAA’s/Stars baseball team.
He taught social studies and geography for the Shippensburg Area School District (SASHS) for 36 years. He coached the SASHS softball team during its early years winning a State Championship in 1982 and captured multiple district titles 1982, 1983, 1984 and was inducted into the SASHS Hall of Fame both individually as a coach and as a member of the 1982 State Championship Softball Team. He also served as equipment manager for SASHS athletics.
He was the happiest spending time with his family, especially his three grandchildren. He also enjoyed reading, doing cryptographs, and spending time outdoors. He was a friend to many and helped all. His joyful spirit and kind heart reached many at home, at church, on the ball field, in the classroom, and in the community. He volunteered his time coaching youth sports and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was warm, calm, compassionate, funny, and supported those he met. His loss will be felt deeply by many.
A service to celebrate Frank’s life will be held on January 13th, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi University Parish, 811 5th Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401 with Father Tom Ackerman presiding.
Visitation at 1 p.m. followed by service at 1:30 pm. Committal will follow in the Holy Spirit Catholic Church Columbarium.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Frank’s memory may be sent to: SASHS – Athletics, Shippensburg Area Senior High School, 201 Eberly Dr. Shippensburg, PA 17257 (In memo section write Frank Kerch Memorial).
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