Gerald Gingrich

    On July 23, 1928, Myrtle (Howard) and Berl Gingrich gave birth to a son, Gerald "Duane" Gingrich.  He grew up in Ashley and graduated from Ashley High School in 1946.  He always boasted that he was 8th in his class!  Jerry served in the United States Army from 1950-1952 during the Korean War.  On September 13, 1952 he married Wilma Norris in Water Loo, Indiana.  Together he and Wilma enjoyed 59 years of marriage and raised 7 children.

     A Graveside Service will be held at North Star Cemetery, North Star, MI, on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at 11:30 A.M.  

After, the graveside service friends will gather at 5195 North Williams Road, St. Johns, MI, to celebrate Gerald’s life.

      Jerry was a lifelong farmer and he worked and retired from Midland Ross in Owosso.  He also worked for Capital Tool & Die for another 10 years before retiring at the age of 65.

     Surviving him are children: Howard (Melanie) Gingrich, Chris (Sue) Gingrich, Russell (Rhonda) Gingrich, Brenda (Brian) Acre, Linda (Donnie) Snelling, and John (Geneva) Gingrich.  He also leaves behind 26 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, and his beloved dog, Buttercup. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Marjorie Beard, his wife, Willie, and his son, Jimmy Gingrich.

     He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors.  Family was important to him and he loved spending time with them, especially his grandkids and great-grandkids.  He had an amazing life and touched everyone he knew.  He will be remembered at a Celebration of Life the summer of 2022.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Elsie Area Food Bank, 225 South Ovid Street, Elsie, MI 48831.   Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com.  The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, Michigan.