Stephen Carl Lerch

Stephen "Steve" Carl Lerch passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, at the age of 75. Throughout his lifetime he lived more, made more friends, and packed in more experiences, than most of us could ever hope for. He leaves behind a legacy in Dartmouth, built on all the good times he shared with so many people.

Born February 26, 1951, to Norma (Alldred) and Carl Lerch. Steve was predeceased by his sister Pamela Lerch, who was his great confidant and companion. He is survived by his brother Murray Lerch, his sister Janet Langille, his daughter Lacey Lerch, any many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He shared a close and lasting friendship with Marilyn DeBay, Lacey's mother. Anyone who knew him could tell you how proud he was of his daughter, how he adored his nieces and nephews, and how devoted he was to his family and friends.

Raised in Dartmouth, Steve's childhood and teenage years in Woodside were full of adventurous friends who would do almost anything for a laugh, like figuring out how to open Coke bottles while they were still inside the vending machine, then drink them through a jerry-rigged straw, so they could user their quarters for something else. Rules never stood in the way of having a good time.

Steve worked as ground crew for Air Canada until retirement, forming lifelong friendships with his colleagues. He was known as a reliable crew member and an active team player, quoted as saying, "I'll do it, but I'm not doing it all."

Steve had a lifelong love of snooker and motorcycles. In his younger days he tore around Dartmouth on a customized Triumph and honed his snooker skills in the pool halls. Later in life, cruising the province with friends on his Harley Davidson Heritage Softail became one of his greatest passions. If the "Gone Biking" sticky note was on his front door, you knew not to wait around; he wouldn't be back anytime soon. He always looked forward to his weekly Monday snooker match, especially when he was on a winning streak.

Music was another passion. He taught himself guitar and piano, and partying with Steve on a weekend meant you either got treated to, or tortured by, his 3 am playing, depending on when you went to bed.

Steve had a big laugh and fast jokes. His nieces and nephews remember his legendary gift-giving, including a trick basket with a pop-up snake that rattled countless unsuspecting teachers over the years. Neighbourhood kids knew they could bring their bikes to Steve's place and he'd get them back on the road. He was grateful for his neighbours and community on Westwood Drive, who graciously supported him in his last years.

He was a deeply intellectual and emotional man who could talk you through the big questions one moment, and have you in stitches the next. Always thoughtful and kind, Steve believed no one, two legs or four, should be left out of a good time. Legend holds he once poured a friend's dogs a finger of rum just to make sure.

Steve celebrated more than 32 years of sobriety, a milestone he wore with quiet pride and worked every day to earn. He found community in AA, where he moved easily between roles; sometimes the student, sometimes the teacher, but always willing to sit with someone in their hardest moments. His wisdom and support made difficult truths easier to carry, and his humour and patience meant you left a conversation with him lighter than when you came in.

Steve Lerch will be deeply missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. At his request, there will not be a formal service or memorial. Sharing your stories and memories on his Facebook page is encouraged.