Michael Andrew Carlo Gerlits

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Michael Andrew Carlo Gerlits, who unexpectedly left us on November 14, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on October 30, 1978, Michael was the beloved son of Joyce Elaine Hull Gerlits and John Clinton Gerlits and little brother to Craig Gerlits.

After his graduation from West Lincoln High in 1996, Michael acquired many talents that brought him joy and the opportunity to be a helping hand to friends and family, while his love and skill for cooking wonderful creations took him into the restaurant industry for most of his adult life. Michael had many other passions that he pursued throughout his life, such as movies and books of all kinds, especially Stephen King, drawing and artwork, and his knife collection of which he was so proud to display. However, his greatest passion, second only to cooking, was the outdoors. Michael spent countless hours enjoying camping, hiking, fishing, wood carving, the study of moths and rocks, and loved a good bonfire as often as possible. If he was at your home and suddenly disappeared, you could always find him outside exploring nature. Although Michael could come across feisty at times, he always had a kind heart underneath, friendship to offer, and funny commentary constantly at the ready. To capture the entirety and essence of who Michael was would be as challenging as trying to capture all the moths and gather all the rocks in the world. He was singularly unique to the end.

During Michael’s life, he had loving relationships, with a few significant women blessing the world with three beautiful children by Michael. His eldest son, Elijah Readenour, with Yolanda; his only daughter, Michaela Gerlits, with Karen; his youngest son, Clinton Gerlits, with Kisha. Despite his life’s circumstances, the pride and love he had for his children never wavered. His remaining years found him with his final love, best friend and constant companion to the end, Crystal.

In addition to his parents, brother and children, Michael is survived by his nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins, along with many other loved ones. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Robert Glenn Hull (Kathleen) and Valentine Gerlits Sr. (Nannie).

Michael’s sudden departure at such a young age leaves a void that can never be filled, serving as a stark reminder to be vigilant in the choices and risks we take in life, to nurture passions that bring positivity to our lives and those we love, to cherish and honor, with every breath and action, the people we love and who love us, for tomorrow is not promised. More than mere words can convey, Michael will be missed by all who loved him.

Funeral Services will be held at St. Dorothy’s Catholic Church in Lincolnton NC, on Tuesday December 9th at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to help cover funeral expenses. Donations, made out to Mr. and Mrs. John Gerlits, can be sent in care of: St. Dorothy’s Catholic Church 148 St Dorothys Lane Lincolnton, NC 28092.