Former Bluffton resident Lance Jay Pearch,  80, of Cumming, Georgia, died on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2020.

Lance was born in Stone Creek, Ohio, on July 26, 1940, to Donald and Anna (Lab) Pearch. He was a graduate of Findlay College and retired from management at the Ford Motor Co. Engine Plant in Lima after 28 years. 

Lance and Karen moved to Cumming to be closer to their children after living in Bluffton for 30 years. Lance was a  volunteer to the Lutheran Church, member of the Elks Lodge and an active Bluffton Athletic Booster while his children were in school in Bluffton. 

Lance is survived by his wife, Karen (Hyer) Pearch, of 54 years, children, Doug (Melanie) Pearch, Beth (Bill) Harnishfeger, Janelle (Nate) Stechschulte, Melissa (Ryan) Moskau, David (Kim) Pearch and Matthew (Kate) Pearch, and sister Elizabeth Stafford. 

He is also survived by 14 grandchildren: Matt and Reese Pearch, Emily and Allyson Harnishfeger, Lance and Megan Stechschulte, Michelle, Maren and Mason Moskau, Emerson and Peyton Pearch and Grant, Dean and Brooks Pearch. 

He was preceded in death by daughter, Michelle Pearch, and brothers, Donald and Gary Pearch.

Private graveside services will be held in Cumming, Georgia. Memorial contributions honoring Lance may be made to Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 5390 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Alpharetta, Georgia 30005.