Gerry Ann De Craene

Finally at rest, Gerry Ann passed away quietly in her home in Niles, Michigan, with her husband, Jim, by her side as always.

She was born in Mishawaka, Indiana, to Phillip and Elsie (Roelandts) Fowler and a home full of kids including her brothers, Frederick (Helen), Robert (Carole), LeRoy (Connie), and sisters Phyllis (Gene Lee) and Theresa (Jeff Johnson).

On Thanksgiving Day 1964, Gerry Ann married James De Craene, and together they shared 61 Thanksgivings. They would welcome daughter, Angela (Alan Cramer) the next year. Daughter, Pamela (Johnny Brawley) followed in 1967 and daughter, Carla Ann (Robert Andresen) in 1971. This was the basis for the greatest joy of Gerry Ann's life – Her family.

Grandchildren completed Gerry Ann's world: Grant (Brooke) Cramer, Bryanna Cramer, Quinn Brawley, Jake Brawley, and finally Griffin Andresen. Gerry Ann was the most incredible "Grammy" who encouraged creativity and would invent games and past times when her grandkids were over. She was the grandma who never said, "No."

Although Gerry Ann chose to devote her life to caring for her home and family, she was very proud of her accomplishment of completing a college degree from Southwestern Michigan College. She entered college along with her daughters, Angie and Pam, and ended up being a showcase story for the school.

As a lifelong artist, trees of all kinds were Gerry Ann's favorite subject matter. Trees, flowers, and still life artworks were in abundance and are on display in the homes of those lucky enough to be gifted her work.

Gerry Ann's faith in God was impressive. She was a member of Niles First Church of God, and found deep friendships that have been an incredibly important part of her life for years. Our thanks to Pastor Bob and his wife, Becky, for their friendship and for all they have done for Gerry Ann and Jim.

Her circle of friends was amazing: from her Union Street neighbors, to the friendships established during her daughters' school years, and her multitude of meaningful church friends. Those who knew her will long cherish her kindness and warmth.

Although it is hard to say good-bye, we know there were many open arms waiting to welcome her in Heaven. Her parents, her brother Fred, and sisters Phyllis and Theresa, her son-in-law, Johnny, and so many other family and friends will celebrate her arrival. She will finally be perfect and no longer in pain.

Because she found such joy in art and in the beauty of trees, the family invites memorial contributions to the Art Department at Niles High School or the planting of a tree in her honor.

Visitation for Gerry Ann will be on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main St. Niles, Michigan 49120. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 11:00am with a time of visitation an hour prior at First Church of God, 33180 US-12, Niles, Michigan 49120. Burial will immediately follow at Silverbrook Cemetery, 1400 East Main St. Niles, Michigan 49120.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.

Photos, condolences, and memories may be shared with Gerry Ann's family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com