Gerald Gilchrist

Jerry was a man with a great mind, an appetite for life and an incredibly admirable work ethic. He knew what was important in life- that there is nothing more valuable or more rewarding than investing in the lives of your family. Although he was a humble man, Jerry took great pride in his family and boastfully shared about his love for them whenever he had the chance.

Because of the depression of 1930, money was scarce and so people did what they could to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. American's enjoyed going to the movies, playing parlor games and sitting at a table with a board game. Others' listened to baseball games on the radio or went out on the town to dance to big band music. Robert and Gladys (Mohney) Gilchrist were enjoying the time by welcoming their son, Jerry, born into their family on April 22, 1937.

Born in Marcellus and raised in Schoolcraft, Michigan, Jerry and his older brother, Roger enjoyed life in the small towns. His father worked hard to provide for the family, first by working independently on a farm and then later through a farm equipment company. Jerry's mother also worked outside the home at a grocery store and while his parent's were away at work, Jerry had no trouble finding things to occupy his time. He was an active boy and when he wasn't enjoying sports or hunting he would mow lawns and deliver papers for extra money. Although Jerry's mother was very strict, he knew she loved him and they remained close throughout the years. Jerry enjoyed spending time with all his grandparents. However , to visit his grandmother in Marcellus took some creativity - he would hitch a ride on the train or ride with the mailman. By the tender age of 12, Jerry had been entrusted to care for the scooter of his personal friend who had been drafted into the military. At the age of 16, he received a .22 caliber rifle - a gift purchased from his parents at the local hardware store . At the age of 17, he received a 16 gauge pump shotgun from a cousin which had once belonged to his maternal grandfather. Jerry enjoyed countless hours of target shooting as well as hunting with many close friends. These two gifts he kept all of his life.

In 1955, Jerry graduated from Schoolcraft High School, however, that was not the highlight of the year. Jerry, through a mutual freind , was introduced to a beautiful young woman name Beverly Parsons and that day changed his life. Jerry fell deeply in love with Beverly and on April 28, 1956 the two were married in Lagrange, Indiana. Their parents were very supportive of their marriage and Jerry's parents even helped them buy their first house in Portage where they lived for 13 years. Jerry and Beverly had their first child in 1958 Jerry Jr and in 1959 Doug was born. In 1968 , Jerry and Bev made the decision to move to Schoocraft in part to help with the care of his mother. Shortly thereafter his mother passed away and at the age of 31 , he willingly took on the role of caretaker for his paternal grandmother until she passed away.

Not wanting to be idle during his retirement, Jerry used this time to help his sons with their home projects and to help his father and stepmother with their medical needs. Jerry always enjoyed being at home, but occasionally could be coaxed by Bev to travel to Northern Michigan, Alabama, and Maine.

He knew how to relax , on occasion he would enjoy a crossword puzzle or to read a good book, especially ones about submarines. "Hunt for Red October was a favorite. Among his favorite ways to spend his time was by enjoying his precious grandchildren, Tony, Katie and Nic. He was genuinely interested in all they did and attentively watched them compete in their chosen sports.

Jerry always had a great sense of humor and watching others' smile at his jokes brought him great joy and satisfaction. Another satisfying reward for him was enjoying a good meal, and although he wasn't a cook he appreciated good food, especially pies. Jerry was a chivalrous husband who loved his wife, Bev whole heartedly. Even in his physical weakness he always tried to open the door for her. He was a wonderful role model and teacher for his sons, a fair-minded disciplinarian, a man who had respect for others and instilled family values in his boys. Jerry's outward expression of his love for other's gave them great security in their relationships with him, as he did not hesitate to talk about his feelings and he generously gave hugs to his loved ones. He was a courageous man in the face of death as he battled illness for seven difficult months. Jerry was a generous spirit who will be remembered for his perseverance, hard work, humor and above all, love. Jerry will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.

Jerry Gilchrist died June 10, 2005. His family includes his wife of 49 years, Beverly, his sons, Jerry (Linda) Gilchrist and Doug (Judie) Gilchrist and his three grandchildren, Tony, Katie and Nic as well as a brother, Roger (Sherry) Gilchrist.

Memorial services will be held 11:00 a.m Monday , June 13, 2005 at the Schoolcraft United Methodist Church

Memorials may be given to the West Michigan Cancer Center, St. Judes Childrens Hospital or Rose Arbor Hospice.

To learn more about Jerry's life, please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can share a memory.