Jerry Bird

Jerry Lee Bird age 81 of Maple Rapids, MI passed away Saturday, August 26, 2017 in Manistee, MI.

Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel St. Johns, MI on Wednesday, August 30, 2017 at 1:00 P.M., with Pastor Mona Kindel officiating.  Burial will take place at Sowle Cemetery, Essex Township, MI. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 29, 2017 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M. at the funeral home.

Jerry was born in Maple Rapids, MI on July 13, 1936, the son of Carl and Doris (Smith) Bird.  Jerry married Janet Antes on June 30, 1954 in Maple Rapids.  He resided most of his life in Maple Rapids, MI.

Jerry served his country in the U.S. Navy.  He retired from Federal Mogul after 48 years.  He loved to hunt, fish, camp, and anything outdoors.  There were many family camping trips over the years and he loved going salmon fishing.  But most of all he loved spending time with his family, especially his children.

Jerry is survived by his wife Janet Bird of Maple Rapids, MI, 4 daughters; Brenda Coffin of Maple Rapids, MI, Cindy and Deryl Brunner of Perrinton, MI, Cathy and Rodney Barrett of Gladwin, MI, Sara and Dennis Mills of Hubbardston, MI, 2 sons; William and Sandy Bird of Portland, MI, Jeremy Bird of St. Johns, MI, 11 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, 1 great-great-granddaughter, and brother Gary Lee and Billie Bird of Maple Rapids, MI.  Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jerry Lee "Buster" Bird, his son-in-law Rex Coffin and his great-grandson Dakota Coffin.

Memorials may be made to the Maple Rapids United Methodist Church. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.