Gerald W. Monnin

DEFIANCE - Gerald W. "Jerry" Monnin, age 86 of Defiance, passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Flower Hospital in Sylvania, Ohio, surrounded by his loving family.

Jerry was born December 19, 1938, to Bill and Josephine Monnin in Dayton Ohio. He was the youngest of three children. He attended Chaminade Julienne HS, and then enlisted and served honorably in the U.S. Navy for 4 years as an aircraft electrician. He served on the aircraft carrier the USS Forrestal. One claim to fame while serving in the Navy was that he was an undefeated boxer with an outstanding record of 1-0. He attended college at the University of Dayton and received his master's from the University of Toledo. He met and married the love of his life Julie Vincze in Dayton. He started his family and career with brief stints in Detroit and Toledo before ultimately calling Defiance home. He was the president and CEO of Northwest Controls in Defiance for over 25 years. In retirement, Jerry and Julie spent their time snowbirding in Florida, traveling the world (hitting most continents), piloting a powered parachute (he insisted it was a "plane") and following their grandkids and great grandkids in whatever sport they were playing.

Regardless of how busy work ever became, Jerry was always available for his wife and kids. He was an avid fan of all sports. In addition to father/son programs like YMCA Guides and Cub Scouts, Jerry also coached multiple sports for all of his kids!

He must have been known by everyone in Defiance for his infamous letters to the editor for the Crescent News. He was a man who walked the path of Jesus, giving to those in need and actively practicing his faith. He was a very active member of Saint Mary's Parish serving in many different capacities from Pastoral Council to helping with the food pantry. Above all, he loved his family, and each son, daughter, and grandchild knew it. From texts on important days, to attending tournaments, to words of advice, he was a pillar of support. His words, stories, and jokes brought comfort and laughs to all around him. In the twilight years of his life, his two dogs, Izzy and Bo, were just like children to him.

Jerry is survived by his children, Jerry (Kelly) Monnin, Jr. of Defiance, Brent (Nancy) Monnin of Medina, Ohio, Nicole Bryant of Poland, Ohio, and Jeff (Angela) Monnin of Cincinnati, Ohio. He also leaves behind eleven grandchildren; Brittany (Connery), Alexis (Trent), Delaney (Derek), Joe, John, Janelle, Heidy, Vince, Kate, Harper and Gus, and six great-grandchildren: Cayden, Jett, Carmen, Vienna, Theo and Walker.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Julie Monnin, and his sisters, Joan Heider and Marilyn Schweickart.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, with a Rosary Service at 3:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28 at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Fr. David Cirata officiating. Jerry will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery, with graveside military honors conducted by VFW #3360.

Memorials are suggested to St. Mary's Food Pantry. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.