Gerald Domenic "Jerry" Massa

BESSEMER, Mich. - Gerald Domenic "Jerry" Massa, 89, of Bessemer, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025.

Born on Jan. 20, 1936, in Bessemer, to Italian immigrant parents, Jerry lived a life rooted in faith, family and community. Except for the years he spent pursuing his education, he made his home in the very house where he was born, honoring his family's legacy and treasuring its place in his heart.

After graduating from high school, Jerry attended Gogebic Community College and later Northern Michigan University, where he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees in education. His commitment to learning and teaching defined his life and shaped his calling as an educator.

Jerry's teaching career spanned several schools across the region, including positions in Ewen, Ironwood Township, Gogebic Community College and Bergland. He ultimately spent 29 years at J.E. Murphy High School in Hurley, Wisconsin, where he taught mathematics and physics. Known for his patience, clarity and ability to inspire curiosity, Jerry touched the lives of thousands of students. After a fulfilling career, he retired at the age of 59.

Beyond his profession, Jerry found joy in the simple and meaningful things of life. In his younger years, he was an avid bowler, once achieving an impressive 299 game. He also enjoyed golfing-though with less success-but always with good humor and camaraderie. A loyal Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins fan, he cheered for his teams with unwavering devotion, season after season. He had a lifelong love of cars, taking great pride in their design and performance, and he cherished his annual trips to the Minnesota State Fair. Jerry was also a successful gardener who nurtured the soil with care and a talented cook who loved to share meals with family and friends.

Most of all, Jerry's love for his family was evident in everything he did. His faith, kindness and steady presence leave behind a legacy of love that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Domenic and Mary Massa; his brother, John Massa; and his sisters, Evelyn (Nick) Ruffatto, Louise (Leo) Plante and Luisa Massa; as well as his long-time friend, Rosemary Strelcheck.

He is survived by his nephews, Lawrence (Colleen) Ruffatto, Stephen (Kim) Ruffatto and John (Maureen) Plante; and his nieces, Mary (Randy) Olson and Maria (Joe) Vanremortel.

For more than half of his life, Jerry embraced a tremendous relationship with his dear companion, Rosemary Strelcheck. What began as a friendship grew into a bond that extended to her children, Ginny (George) Boline and Jerry (Paulette) Strelcheck, and continued through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. This lifelong connection stands as a true testament to how caring and love can carry on between friends and family alike, enriching the lives of all who shared in it.

His memory will live on in the love he gave and the lives he touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, Oct. 17, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, 210 E. Iron St., in Bessemer, with the Rev. Christian Flagstadt, celebrant.

Rite of Committal and interment will take place at the Hillcrest Cemetery, Bessemer.

In lieu of flowers, if you choose, Jerry wished that support be given to the Bessemer Science Olympiad by check sent to A.D. Johnston High School, 100 W. Lead St., Bessemer, MI 49911, as well as to Regional Hospice Services by check at Regional Hospice, 204 Harrison St., Suite 5, Ironwood, MI 49938 or online at www.regionalhospice.org/donate.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.