A house RESOLUTION

 

TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UPON THE PASSING OF HARRY GATCH OF SUMMERVILLE AND TO EXTEND THE DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Harry Gatch of Summerville on January 25, 2025, at the venerable age of 78; and

 

Whereas, born on November 14, 1946, in Charleston, Harry Gatch was a man of faith, family, and country. As Harry and his twin brother, Larry, grew up, the Lowcountry became their playground. Marshlands and swamps created a backdrop for adventures only a little boy can dream. It was a time of taming alligators, snapping turtles, and even a red-tailed hawk. It was a time of building one's own boat, flounder gigging with friends near Fort Sumter, and cast netting for shrimp; and

 

Whereas, Harry's father, Melvin Gatch, was a disabled Marine and worked in the Navy Yard in Charleston. Harry's mother, Lyvon Gatch, was an inspector in a hand grenade factory during World War II. She began her registered-nursing career in pediatrics at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston; she also served as head nurse for a pediatric practice, touching the lives of two generations; and

 

Whereas, Harry graduated from Stall High School in North Charleston. During his high school years, he played football and basketball and ran track. Harry tied the state record in the 50-yard dash and received two football scholarships. For two years, the young Harry attended Baptist College, where he served as goalie for the soccer team, as well as captain for the intramural basketball team; and

 

Whereas, the U.S. military draft was in effect, and all males were required to register. At this time in the war, there was no protection from the draft. Harry and his brother joined the U.S. Submarine Service. Harry served three and a half years of active duty and four years as a Reserve member. After leaving the military, Harry worked with the South Carolina Highway Department and became the assistant resident engineer. He worked six years with Wilbur Smith & Associates to become a civil engineer. He also worked with Sigma Engineers in surveying and topography. In 1973, Harry began his thirty-five years with South Carolina Electric & Gas. After retirement, he worked with RLA Associates, PA, Surveying, a land surveying company; and

 

Whereas, further, Harry was an inventor with three U.S. patents. One of his inventions won Best Invention of the Year from the Natural Gas Association. The process was included in the Institute of Gas Technology manual, Washington, D.C.; and

 

Whereas, it was the summer of 1975, and Margaret Altman had just graduated from Winthrop College and had come to Summerville to teach. Harry and Margaret were destined to meet! On a Sunday night at Summerville Baptist Church, Harry stepped forward to meet her. Four months later they were married, and December 20, 2024, was their 49th anniversary. Harry and Margaret's life was centered in the church where they met-a life of deaconship, youth ministry, and music ministry; and

 

Whereas, Harry leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Maggie, and his sons, Gil Gatch and Lance Gatch. Gil is married to Heather Lee Gatch, and they have a daughter, Claire Boswell Gatch. Lance is married to London Weidberg Gatch, and they have two daughters, Tilly Marguerite Gatch and Sofie Lavender Gatch. Harry is also survived by his twin brother, Larry Gatch. Harry's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be greatly missed. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the passing of Harry Gatch of Summerville and extend the deepest sympathy to his family and many friends.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the family.

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