Geraldine V. Nantz

Geraldine V. Nantz Geraldine (Gerry) V. Nantz., age 93, died Tuesday, October 13, 2010 in Sebring, FL. Gerry was born on August 23, 1917 in Scottville, MI to Max E. and Hazel E. (Lattin) Tyler. She lost both her father and brother while she was still very young. Gerry graduated from Hart High School and then went on to become a licensed beautician. She married Charles VanHouten in 1938, and divorced in 1945. In 1949, Gerry met and married Melvin E. Rooker. They moved to Battle Creek, MI and both worked for White House Ice Cream Company for many years before opening the Dolphin Lounge on S.W. Capital Avenue in Battle Creek. They retired in 1975 and Melvin died that same year. In 1979, Gerry married George Hoehne and they spent many years traveling around the world and attending county fairs. They wintered in Avon Park, FL. George died in 1990. In 1993, Gerry met and married Paul L. Nantz of Marshall, Michigan. They divorced in 1995. Gerry loved working in the yard and garden. She also loved books and was an avid reader. Before moving to Florida permanently in 2006, she was a member of the North Avenue Church of God in Battle Creek and a member of the Burnham Brook Center. Gerry had an unwavering love and commitment to her family. Surviving her are her children, Sharon (Larry) Whitney of Sparks, NV, Ronald (Janet) Van Houten of Sebring, FL and Shirley (Robert) Hughes of Battle Creek, MI. Also surviving are two stepchildren, Earl (Lylene) Hoehne of Marshall, MI and Martin (Velda) Hoehne of Vicksburg, MI; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Friday, October 22, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at North Avenue Church of God, 1079 North Avenue, Battle Creek MI with interment of cremains following at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens. The family requests no flowers. Donations may be made to the charity of one's choice.