Gerald Earl Mallery

Gerald Earl Mallery, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at his "home," Hampton Manor of Merrill. He was born June 20, 1932 in Owosso, MI the son of the late Earl V. and Hilda M. (Schulz) Mallery.

Gerald lived in Chesaning, MI with his family until they moved to Merrill, MI his freshman year of high school. He graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1950. On August 13, 1955, Gerald married the love of his life, Wanda Mallery, at the Merrill Congregational Church. They shared 64 blessed and happy years of marriage.

Gerald retired after 35 years from hauling bulk milk. After his retirement, he started a lawn mowing business with Wanda, which they worked at for 10 years together. Gerald's interests included wood crafting and gardening. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan, rarely missing a game. His one passion was fishing. In 2001 Gerald, along with his two brothers, started "Mallery's Fish Camp." This yearly trip took them to Lake Mississippi, Ontario, Canada where many "fishing tales" were share with family and friends upon their return. However, his greatest joy was time spent with his family. Gerald was a lifelong member of the Merrill Congregational Church, serving as Deacon, Trustee and Usher.

Gerald is survived by his daughter, Cathy (Fred) Naessens; grandchildren, Ryan (Lindsay) Naessens, Emily (Kenny) Hoyt, Erin Naessens, and Sarah Fleming and her partner; great-grandchildren, Jacob Fleming, James "JW" and Luke Hoyt, Regan and Brady Naessens. He is also survived by his sister, Marcelene (Bill) Darland; brothers, George Mallery and Lester (Jane) Mallery and sister-in-law, Patricia Mallery; many nieces, nephews , and friends.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Wanda; daughter Tamara Fleming; brother, James “JD” Mallery; sisters-law, Carolyn Mallery, Janice Howe, and Darlene Keel; brothers-in law, Ronald Howe and Clair Keel.

Gerald had an extended "family" in the staff and residents at Hampton Manor of Merrill. He shared many laughs, activities, Euchre games, bingo, and just great fun with them. His family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to them all for welcoming him and making him "one of their family." Also, to the staff at Hampton Manor of Merrill, our gratitude, thanks, and appreciation for the care, kindness, and compassion shown to Gerald while he lived there. You all were "family" to him. Thank you also to Kelly with First Hospice Care, Inc. for her compassion and care during Gerald's last days.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 1:00pm at the Merrill Congregational Church, 245 S. Midland Rd, Merrill, MI 48637. Reverend Richard Gossett will be officiating. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 10:00am until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Gerald's honor to Merrill Congregational Church, Hampton Manor of Merrill, 400 N Midland Rd, Merrill, MI 48637, or the Jonesfield Lakefield Township Fire Department, 204 W Mahoney St, Merrill, MI 48637.