Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1937
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Gerald Kiersey Obituary
Petoskey Michigan
July 5, 2025
OMENA- Gerald Jay Kiersey, 88, of Petoskey, formerly of Omena, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and Canadian Lakes, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, July 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Gerald was born on May 25, 1937, in Omena, the son of Donald and Eleanor (Erikson) Kiersey. On October 23, 1963, in Grandville, MI, he married the love of his life, Karan Anderson, who preceded him in death on January 29, 2018.
A devout Lutheran, Gerald lived his life with quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to his family. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy and remained active in veterans' organizations, including the American Legion and Vietnam Veterans of America. One of his favorite pastimes was playing euchrehe once took home first prize in a tournament at the VFW Hall in Mecosta, MI.
Gerald built a strong career in the machine shop and iron foundry industry. He worked for Traverse City Iron Works and later WW Grainger in Grand Rapids, eventually retiring in 2003. His work ethic was second to none, and he took great pride in a job well done.
Gerald is survived by his sons, Douglas Kiersey (John Hickey) and Joseph (Andre Williams) Kiersey; over 80 nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 54 years, Karan; and his siblings, Opal Kiersey, Denver (Barb) Kiersey, Donald (MaryEllen) Kiersey, Hugh "Ole" (Joan) Kiersey, Robert (Lois) Kiersey, Ralph Kiersey, Georgia "Kay" (Carl) Alpers, and Beulah (Maurice) Benedict.
A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Martinson Funeral Home in Suttons Bay. The funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. Burial will follow in the Omena Hillcrest Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Gerald's memory may be directed to the Mecosta County Commission on Aging Medical Transportation, 12954 80th Ave, Mecosta, MI 49332.
Please share condolences and memories with Gerald's family at www.martinson.info.
Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Kiersey
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in Gerald Kiersey's name
Memorial Events
for Gerald Kiersey
Jul
26
Funeral services provided by:
Martinson Funeral Home115 North Saint Joseph Street P. O. Box 159, Suttons Bay, MI 49682
How to support Gerald's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Gerald Kiersey's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
