Jerry Luke

Gerald “Jerry” Leroy Luke, 86, entered eternal life on August 16, 2026, after receiving the Last Rites of the Catholic Church. Born on October 6, 1939, in Ashtabula, Ohio, he was the son of Irean and Clarence Luke.

Jerry was born into deep poverty and grew up in a house with a dirt floor, at a time when formal education and opportunity were scarce for his family. Yet the circumstances into which he was born never determined the limits of his life.

Jerry spent most of his working years at General Motors. Through decades of hard work, determination, and perseverance, he built a life of stability and security for his family. He took pride in a job well done and in creating a future that looked very different from the one into which he had been born.

Away from work, Jerry loved golf, whether he was playing a round himself or watching it on television. He also enjoyed watching football and proudly rooted for Michigan.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Susan; his three children, Douglas, James, and Theresa; his grandchildren, Eli, Solomon, Alex, Samantha, Max, Brandon, Elizabeth, and Marie; six great-grandchildren; and his brother, Merl Luke.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irean and Clarence Luke; his infant brother, Kenneth; and his granddaughter, Tiffany (Luke) Kidwell.

Jerry did more than rise beyond the poverty into which he was born; he changed the starting point for every generation that followed him. His greatest accomplishment was the family that grew around him and the opportunities he made possible for those who came after him. He leaves behind four generations, a lifetime of memories, and an enduring example of what determination and hard work can build.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 11 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Friends may visit with his family beginning at 10 AM. Entombment will be in Holy Cross Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Alzheimer’s Association.