Jerry Chase

Jerry Allen Chase

Jerry passed away surrounded by the love of his family and friends who are like family.

Jerry was a hard-working man who grew up farming with his uncles, who were brothers to him. As a young man, he started working for General Motors as a Tool and Die Tradesman, and built a home for his growing family. He loved to farm and found great happiness working the field with his son, Bob, who preceded him in death (grandchildren Monica and Robert). While at GM, he was part of some shenanigans with his friend Carl and was so proud of his son, Bob, who worked there also. Jerry’s favorite times were spent with his kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids, and driving around the lake on his pontoon boat.

Jerry could fix anything….he had a kind way of teaching and allowed you to “figure it out”, while giving gentle guidance. He worked at the church alongside his friend Steve (and Steve’s wife Brenda). He was known to drop everything and make himself available to assist others in any way he could; changing a tire along the S-curve, babysitting in the middle of the night, always “showing up” and being present. Jerry proved to be a willing participant in most any activity or adventure.

To say that Jerry loved garage sales is an understatement… he loved them….as a social event, but importantly, to make sure those around him had their needs met, especially the little ones in his life.

“Big J” exuded a buoyant personality, and genuinely wanted to hear the stories of others-whether he was walking the mall with his brother/uncle Jim, dining out, standing in line at the store, or shopping at a garage sale. He enjoyed solving the world’s problems with his friends Char and Jan. He made friends every time he connected with others-such as with his favorite nursing staff-and he genuinely cared about the stories of others. A more social person you will not find.

Jerry is survived by his remaining children, son Mike Chase (Deb), grand-children Dawson and Kitara, daughter Tammy (Mike) Coleman, granddaughter Maddison (Theo) Tongue and great-grandson Callum, sister Karla (Brad) Erkes (children Audey, Chandler and Gibson), Barb Phenning, (Dan, Julie, Alexis, Jovan and Simone and Li’leah), and mother of his children, Donna Chase. He cherished many dear friends who walked the journey of life with him and we are thankful for each and every one.

Despite the many trials and tribulations in his life, Jerry proved to be a most hopeful man. Respecting his positive spirit, we choose to celebrate Jerry’s life on Thursday, August 1 with a gathering open for all from 12-2 at Shawmut Heritage at 2120 Lake Michigan Drive, Standale. Services follow at 2 pm.

Memorial Contributions can be made to Boys and Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids.