Gerald Hopkins

Gerald Homer "Jerry" Hopkins, age 68, of Crystal, MI, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family Saturday, January 25, 2020.

A Memorial Service with military honors will be held at Crystal Congregational Church at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 1, 2020, with Pastor Reid Martin officiating. There will be a time of visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. at the church prior to the service.

Gerald was born in Stanton, Michigan on March 28, 1951, the son of Clifton J. and Virginia Mae (Bonifield) Hopkins. He graduated from Central Montcalm High School with the class of 1970. Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

On August 6, 1977, Jerry married Sherry Lee Bauer at Jerry's parents' home in Stanton. They celebrated 42 years prior to his passing. Jerry worked for the Montcalm County Road Commission after owning the Lake Montcalm Party Store for 9 years.

Jerry enjoyed his work with AA and the friends he made. He was proud of his 13 years of sobriety. He was a member of the American Legion Post 452 and VFW Post 5065.

Jerry enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping.  He loved fixing things and was always ready to help anyone in need. Jerry liked to make people smile and was always joking around. He was a friend to everyone he met. Most of all, Jerry loved time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Jerry is survived by his wife Sherry Hopkins of Crystal, MI; 2 daughters: Veronica Lazarus of Crystal, MI; and Jennifer Hopkins-Kowaleski of Laingsburg, MI; 6 grandchildren: Colten Wheeler, Rex Wheeler, McKenzie Lazarus, Garrett Kowaleski, Lydia Kowaleski, and Cora Hopkins-Newhall; one brother Michael (Linda) Hopkins. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Virginia Hopkins.

Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family. Online condolences can be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.