Harry Gatch

Harry Gatch was a man of faith, family, and country. Harry was born in 1946 in Charleston, South Carolina. As Harry and his twin brother, Larry, grew up, the Lowcountry became their playground. Marshlands and swamps created a backdrop for adventures that 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 your own boat, flounder gigging with friends near Fort Sumter, and cast netting for shrimp. 

Harry's father, Melvin Gatch, was a disabled Marine and worked in the Navy Yard in Charleston, SC. Harry's mother, Lyvon Gatch, was an inspector in a hand-grenade factory during World War 2.  She began her registered nursing career at Medical University in Charleston, South Carolina in Pediatrics; she also served as head nurse for a pediatric practice, touching lives of two generations.

Harry graduated from Stall High School in North Charleston, SC. During his high school years at Stall, he played football, basketball, and ran track. Harry tied the state record in the 50 yard dash in 5.3 seconds. He also received football scholarships to Florida State University and Newbury College. Harry attended the Baptist College for two years where he was goalie for the soccer team as well as captain of the intramural basketball team.

The US 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 US Submarine Service. Harry served 3 1/2 years active duty and four years in reserves. After leaving the military, Harry worked with the SC 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 35 years with South Carolina Electric and Gas. After retirement, he worked with RLA Associates, PA Surveying, a land surveying company. 

Harry was an inventor with three US 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, DC. 

It was the summer of 1975. Margaret Altman had just graduated from Winthrop College and had come to Summerville, South Carolina 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. 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.

Harry is survived by 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.

The Gatch Family would like to invite you to Harry’s funeral on Friday, January 31st, at Summerville Baptist Church located at 417 Central Ave. The viewing will be held at 1:00 PM in the church sanctuary followed by the funeral at 2:00 PM. The burial will be immediately after the funeral.  Flowers can be sent to Parks Funeral Home 130 W 1st N St. Summerville SC 29483.

Arrangements by PARKS FUNERAL HOME, 130 W. 1st North Street, Summerville, SC 29483.www.parksfuneralhome.com

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