Ronald James Gerlach, 45, of Port St. Lucie, FL passed away on Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at his residence. Ron was a long-time resident of Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton, FL. Ron was born in Fort Lauderdale, FL on January 23, 1967 to Ronald Charles Gerlach (deceased) and Sandra Jean Vanderhagen LaBarbera. He was survived by his fiance, Cathy VanKleeck; his mother, Sandra and stepfather, Steven LaBarbera; his sister, Laura and brother-in-law Douglas Govan; his stepbrothers Jason and Jeremy LaBarbera and their families. Ron had a passion for astronomy and history when he was not busy with his financial management career. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends - the LaBarbera, Vanderhagen and Blondet families, his "Mimi," and best friends Angelo Petreccia and Steve Hoffman along with their families. A memorial service for Ron will be held at The Gardens Memorial Park on Sunday, September 16, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. The Gardens Memorial Park is located at 4103 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton, FL 33431. In lieu of flowers, please join Ron's family and friends at the memorial and share a memory or story about your relationship with Ron. In lieu of formal donations, do an 'Act of Kindness' in Ron's name. For example, double tip your waiter, buy a meal for someone in need or pay the toll for the car behind you. Ron was always doing generous, unexpected things to help others in need. Share any acts of kindness you do in Ron's name with his family and friends on the tribute wall at the website .