Gerald “Jerry” Roger Spain, age 86, of Gregory, MI, passed away on April 17, 2024.
Jerry was born on February 5, 1938 in Chicago, IL, the son of Roger and Fern Spain. He was raised on a dairy farm in Denmark, WI, just south of Green Bay. He had many fond memories of a good and happy upbringing.After graduating from high school, he moved back to Chicago, the city he became to love. On May 19, 1973, he married Kathleen P. (Kubes), and they enjoyed over 50 years of marriage.
A proud veteran of the US Army, Jerry served as an artillery surveyor at Ft. Sill, OK from 1961-1963. His job with Schwinn Bicycle Company led to his transfer to Michigan as Regional Sales Manager. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. He loved animals, wildlife, nature, and working outdoors. He enjoyed cooking on the original Weber cooker and had interest in British sports cars, owning a few in his lifetime. He had artistic talent and could make or fix anything. He was the original handyman.
Jerry had the Irish sense of humor and was affectionately called “Spain” often, explaining the name was Irish not Spanish.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Kathy, sister-in-law, Bonita Brandt, brother-in-law, George Kubes, and sister-in-law, Rebecca ( Robert) Doomis, as well as his kitty, Rachel.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to all the staff at Brookdale Assisted Living in Ann Arbor and Residential Hospice for their caring and kind service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley or St. Mary Catholic Church.
Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
