Gerald "Jerry" Kreza

Gerald "Jerry" Kreza, age 88, of Hillsdale, previously of Detroit, passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at his home. He was born on October 3, 1936, in Hamtramck, Michigan, to Thomas and Violet (Dragic) Kreza. He married Barbara Jean Galas on January 11, 1960, and she preceded him in death on January 23, 2017.
Jerry graduated from Hamtramck High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force. He later worked various factory jobs before becoming a Detroit Police Officer where he retired as a Sergeant after 32 years of service. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing baseball and was nicknamed King Kong Kreza for his outstanding homeruns, later in life though he stuck to golfing. He traveled often with his wife, and they were frequently in California, Vegas, and South Carolina. Jerry also loved sports betting, especially golf.
Jerry is survived by two sons, Craig (Marsha) Kreza, and Scott (Suzanne) Kreza; one bonus daughter, Lisa (Ron) Kreza-Bristow; five grandchildren, Zack, Joshua, Brooke, Gabrielle, and Annalise; and one brother, Owen (Donna) Kreza.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife of 57 years, Barbara; and a sister, Marilyn Overton.
A Memorial Mass for Jerry Kreza will take place on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Hillsdale with Fr. Paul Xavier officiating. Burial will take place at a later date at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Arrangements have been entrusted to the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project or Special Olympics Plymouth Canton Stars Area 23.