Jerry Wayne Merkle

Jerry Wayne Merkle, age 89, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished brother, passed away on February 27, 2025, at the Safe Haven Assisted Living in Okemos, Michigan. Born on November 20, 1935, in Warren, Michigan, Jerry's life was a tapestry woven with threads of hard work, familial devotion, and a quiet strength that characterized his very being.

A dedicated employee, Jerry devoted ten impactful years to the Michigan School for the Deaf, nurturing young minds and contributing to their development. He later transitioned to Colon, Michigan, where he became a Boiler Operator, lending his expertise to General Motors and American Axle for an admirable twenty years until his well-deserved retirement. His commitment to his work was matched only by his dedication to his family, as he led a life imbued with a profound sense of responsibility.

Educated in the Elk Rapids Schools, Jerry remained a man of few words, possessing a big heart that spoke volumes through his actions. He treasured his family dearly, playing the role of an exemplary father and husband for over six decades to his beloved wife, Gladys, who preceded him in death. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children, Bethany (Eric) Bullion, Jerry (Chris) Merkle Jr., Laura Skidmore, and Cathy Revere, along with his daughter-in-law, Jean Merkle. He is the proud grandfather of eleven grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, each of whom he adored and enriched with his unwavering love and guidance.

Jerry also leaves behind a cherished sister, Shirley Lewis, alongside a wealth of nieces and nephews who will carry fond memories of his steadfast presence and gentle nature. Within Jerry's heart, there was always room for more love to share, and he did so abundantly throughout his life.

His pursuits in life extended beyond his noble work and family, as he found joy in golfing, reading, and fishing during his younger years. These interests provided him with treasured moments of relaxation and connection to the great outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Charles and Gladys (Lyons) Merkle, his devoted wife of 62 years, Gladys, and his brothers Kenneth, Keith, Donald, Robert, Thomas, Norman, and Ralph, as well as his sisters Bernice, Gladys, and Mildred. His spirit, characterized by hard work and familial love, will shine brightly in the lives of those who remain, as they carry forward his memory with honor and affection.

Private arrangements were entrusted to Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road, Swartz Creek. Private interment will take place along with Gladys at Crestwood Memorial Cemetery, Grand Blanc. Those desiring may direct Memorial Contributions to the Heart to Heart Hospice Foundation (www.htohhfoundation.org/donation/) Tributes can be shared with the family at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com