Traverse City, Michigan
TRAVERSE CITY — Gerald Eugene Mackey, 77, of Traverse City, died unexpectedly on Monday, April 14, 2008.
Gerald was born on Aug. 11, 1930, in Grand Rapids, to the late Milford and Maude Mackey. He married the love of his life, Barbara Barnes, on Dec. 5, 1953, in Traverse City.
As a child of the Depression, Gerald learned the meaning of hard work at an early age. The great stories of his youth will be forever cherished by his family.
At the young age of 16, Gerald got his Seaman's card and sailed the Great Lakes. In 1951, Gerald answered the call of duty and served in the United States Military.
He was a local Operating Engineer for many years and was a member of the Local 324 Chapter.
Hunting, fishing and gardening were activities that Gerald enjoyed. Above all else, Gerald enjoyed spending his time both working and playing with his sons.
Surviving Gerald are his wife, Barb; two sons, Robert E. (Gloria) of Copemish and William E. (Patricia) of Traverse City; three grandchildren, Amy, Brook and Jessica; great-grandson, Nicholas; sister, Marcia Mackey; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Gerald was preceded in death by a brother, Milford; and a sister, Jeanne (Mackey) Dalrymple.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 19, from 4 to 8 p.m., at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be directed to East Bay Fire and Ambulance.
The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Traverse City; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
Aunt Barb, I feel so blessed to have been part of such a wonderfull person's family!!! I will truly miss Uncle Jerry, my favorite memory of him was when I was in high school going out to lunch and would bump into him while he was out on a job. I will always remember his huge smile always on his face! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all!!! Love Cassie, Gary and kids.
Cassie Paige
May 02, 2008 | Buffalo, NY
Jerry was more than a cousin, he was a very caring and giving close friend. He always brightened my days when he came in to the store he took time to seek me out and speak kind and caring words to me and our family. He always had time for us and we enjoyed spending time with him. I have lots of fond memories that I'll hold in my heart and bring out when I need brighter times. I feel now that I have lost my dad that he's here with me trying to comfort me. I envision his soft tender...
Kathie Cadwell
April 26, 2008 | Traverse City
He beat me at poker.
Well it was fun just the same, though I never played much. Remember the good times. Seeing him at Roy's was always a pleasure. Truly, we have lost a good friend. He will be missed.
May he always be remembered for the good man he was.
The prayers of our family are with you.
Rob Hentschel
April 25, 2008 | Traverse City, MI
Aunt Barb, 1930 (the year of his birth) 2008 (the year of his death).The "dash" between 1930 (-) 2008 represents his life with us, the memories that he gave each of us are what he was made of. Although I knew him only a short period of his great life, I am honored to have called him "Uncle". I never saw a frown only laughter. I never heard a harsh word only pleasantries. I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and the family....Love Barbara .................. Philipians 1:3
Barbara Mackey Willis
April 22, 2008 | Adamsville, TN
Aunt Barb and Family, Sorry About your loss and the passing of my favorite uncle.. May skinny enjoy his stay with the lord, me, fatty, will see him again some day!!!. we are all going to miss him but his sacarsim and witt will be with us forever and we will always cherisse his good nature!! So when you think of what just happened, Don't be sad, but be happy that we were all able to enjoy the good times we shared with Skinny!!!!! Love Ann Marie and Dan Love you so Much. Wish you and your...
Ann Marie Schultz
April 20, 2008 | Beaufort, SC
You were my good friend. I will miss you forever.
Keith Fisk
April 20, 2008 | Beaufort, SC
On the day we're born, we are given a name.Mine has always meant something to me. I was named after my dad's brother, Uncle Jerry. I only hope I'm remembered as half the man he was. He will be forever missed. To my Aunt Barb, you and Jerry were always an inspiration to all who knew you because you were always each others best friend, and it showed.Bob and Bill, I know there's a big hole right now, but it will be filled with memories that only you have of your dad, as were mine.
...
JERRY mACKEY
April 20, 2008 | BEAUFORT, SC
I will always remember Uncle Jerry's big smile. I can't remember a time when he wasn't smiling.
I can still hear the sound of his laughter and the way his face would light up with joy.
He will always be remembered for the wonderful man that he was.
Keep your chin up Aunt Barb. We all love you and are thinking of you.
All our love, Erin (Fisk) and Mikey Heath
Erin (Fisk) Heath
April 19, 2008 | Jacksonville, NC
Dear Aunt Barb and Family,
We will miss Uncle Jerry, his big smile and great stories. Sending you lots of love,
The DiPisa's
Corrine DiPisa
April 19, 2008 | Lake Ann, MI
