Jerry Feighner

Gathered with his buddies telling a story is where Jerry Feighner often loved to be. He was outspoken, never seeming to hold back his opinions while allowing those near him a window into his soul. Jerry worked hard throughout his lifetime yet he loved having fun too, and nothing brought a smile to his face like his precious grandbaby. With looks that resembled a mix between Santa Claus and a teddy bear, Jerry seemed to draw others to him while loving them in such a special way.

The 1950s were a time of great change within the culture of America as the sounds of rock n’ roll saturated the airwaves while the television was becoming common in households nationwide. People gathered around not only to remain abreast of the news of the day, but also to watch shows like The Honeymooners, and Father Knows Best. It was also during this same time that in San Francisco, California, Max and Florence (Duffy) Feighner were celebrating the birth of their first child, their son Jerry on December 12, 1950. Jerry’s time in San Francisco was relatively short-lived though as his father was in the Navy and was discharged not long after his birth. His father was from Perrinton, Michigan, and so they soon headed back to Michigan where they settled in St. Johns. Jerry was later joined in his family by his younger sister Edna, and together the Feighner family remained in St. Johns - just a bit to the south of his father’s hometown. Once there, Jerry attended St. Johns Public Schools, and during his high school career, Jerry played football and was known around school as “Hoss". He graduated in 1969, the last year before the new high school opened.

Not long after, Jerry’s life turned a different corner when he met the young girl with whom he would share his lifetime. Her name was Pam Post, and he met her at Houghton Lake where she was from. They dated for one year, and then he surprised her with a diamond on her birthday requesting that she become his wife. She accepted his proposal, and became Mrs. Jerry Feighner on May 19, 1973. They began their lives together as husband and wife in St. Johns where Jerry began working at Saylor Beall, manufacturer of industrial grade air compressors. He became the union president there before leaving to work for the St. Johns Public Schools where he worked in maintenance. Jerry remained with the school system for over 30 years before retiring just last year. Jerry was a lifelong resident of St. Johns which prides itself on being a pleasantly safe town that seems to have a bit of something for everyone with award-winning schools, numerous recreational opportunities, and diverse cultural experiences as well.

Work wasn’t the only thing that kept Jerry busy, however. He and Pam were blessed with the births of their sons, Jerry, Jr. and John. Jerry also enjoyed spending time playing pinochle, and taking care of his cars. He liked getting together with his buddies where he loved sharing stories and laughter. Jerry liked to bow hunt for deer until his health made it too difficult for him later in life. When he became a grandfather, Jerry soon discovered that nothing filled him with more joy than seeing his grandbaby which always brought a smile to his face.

There are a few things which made Jerry so unique and for which he will be so dearly missed. He enjoyed cooking and often prepared tasty meals for his family that they thoroughly savored. Sunday mornings usually meant eating at Fire Mountain in Lansing. Spending time at their breakfast buffet which had become a bit of a tradition.

Whether he was playing football in high school, putting in a hard day at work, or whipping up something delicious in the kitchen, Jerry Feighner was a true individual in every way. Anyone who knew him genuinely knew him since he never shied away from sharing his opinions. Jerry was a dedicated employee within his community for over 30 years, working hard to support his family too. Throughout his life, Jerry enjoyed a diverse collection of interests that he loved pouring himself into as often as he could. Although his family says goodbye for now, they will forever hold fast to the moments they spent with their beloved brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be dearly missed.

Jerry E. Feighner of St. Johns died Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at his home. Jerry’s family includes his wife Pam, his son, Jerry (Shari) Feighner, Jr.; grandsons, Matthew Palmer, Keith Palmer, and Ryan Feighner; sister, Edna Feighner; mother-in-law, Marion Post; and brother-in-law, Russell Post. He is preceded in death by his parents and son, John Feighner. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday and from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday at Osgood Funeral Home in St. Johns. No funeral services will be held at this time. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or photo, sign his online guestbook, or make a memorial contribution to Boy Scout Troop #72.