Gerald "Jerry" Smith

Jerry was born on March 17, 1947. He was born in Battle Creek to Cleo Shulte Griese and Harry E. Smith. He attended Hasting Public Schools, he then went on to trade school. He enlisted in the Navy in 1967, served for 4 years fighting in Vietnam. He then worked at Kellogg's for 30 years as a certified welder. He was an avid fisherman in freshwater and saltwater. He loved  trips to Iowa for pheasant hunting. He also enjoyed deep sea fishing and surf fishing. Jerry was an excellent mechanic, but needed persuasion and prodding for things that needed to be fixed. He was a member of St Jerome Catholic Church for 45 years. He met  Patricia "Pat" Wing in 1965, they have been in each others lives for a longtime. They married  on February 24, 1978 and recently celebrated their 43rd Anniversary. He had an addiction to dachshunds, having as many as  13 in his lifetime. He loved classic cars and car shows, which he attended regularly. He was a member of Kellogg's 25 year club. He was also a member of St Mary's Lake Association. He adored his kids and grandchildren. He attended every football, basketball, and wrestling event. His College team was the University of Michigan.  He is survived by his wife Pat  Wing Smith of Battle Creek. Sister Darlene Weiderin of Carroll, Iowa and they remained close all their lives. He has childhood friend Charles Palone, and they remain friends to this day.  He has four children, Gerald Smith of Panama, Michelle Smith Trox (Christian) of Mandeville, LA; Shawn Smith of Battle Creek, MI and Brandon Smith (Alexia) of Battle Creek. He has  5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He will be missed by all who loved him, especially Pat.  A Memorial Mass will be held 3:30p.m., Friday, March 5, 2021, at St. Jerome Catholic Church with Fr. Christopher Ankley officiating. Following the mass, the family invites you to join them for fellowship and a meal at the American Legion Post 298 located at 228 North 20th Street starting at 5:00 p.m. All donations please  send to ASPCA. www.henryfuneralhome.org