Herbert Ernest "Bert" Jarvie

Herbert (Bert) Ernest Wilkie Jarvie passed away on January 29, 2026. He was born on March 4, 1936, in Maryhill, Glasgow, Scotland to George Beattie Jarvie and Annie McDonald Jarvie. He was married April 12, 1957, to Jessie Hunter MacKenzie. He was predeceased by his daughter Fiona (stillborn) and his son David, and his younger brother George. Bert is survived by his wife Jessie; son Stephen (Laura) and his beloved granddaughters Aylee, Amelia and Adeline; his brother-in-law Jim MacKenzie (Simone); his sister Anne Johnston; sisters-in-law Jean Etherington and Betty Jarvie; and many nieces and nephews in Michigan, Scotland, Australia and New Zealand.

Bert completed his apprenticeship in Scotland as a tool and dye maker for Rolls Royce. He continued that path in Michigan working for Burroughs and General Motors Hydramatic Division. Finishing his last 15 years as a process engineer GM, Bert devoted 36 years to his career.

Bert wanted to be in the Air Force like his father but for medical reasons, the Royal Air Force in Brittian would not allow him. He proudly served in the United States Air Force reserves for 8 years, honorably discharged in November of 1969.

Bert lived a life marked by devotion-to family, to friendship, and to the simple joys that make a life well lived. Born with a proud Scottish spirit and grounded by decades in Michigan, he carried warmth, humor, and a deep appreciation for everyday pleasures wherever he went. He embraced retirement with enthusiasm, especially the 17 cherished winters he and Jessie spent in Clearwater, Florida, where sunshine, community, and unhurried days on the golf course suited him perfectly.

An avid golfer and bowler, Bert was happiest when he was active, enjoying friendly competition and good company. He was proud of winning the club championship in the Colonial Club golf league. He never passed up a great meal, and his love of cooking and woodworking reflected both his creativity and his generosity. In 1980, Bert and Jessie found their happy place when they purchased their home on Reed Lake in Commerce, a place filled with laughter, gatherings, and peaceful lake views that he treasured deeply.

Family was the heart of Bert's world. Few things brought him more joy than raising his sons, Stephen and David, and watching his granddaughters grow up. He also found meaning and camaraderie through music, singing with the Richmond Choir Quartet, and through shared traditions like trap shooting at the Multi-Lakes Gun Club alongside his son Stephen. He was an expert marksman and shot target for Scotland against England; Bert also won many trophies in target shooting.

Bert's life was rich not because of grand gestures, but because of the love he gave so freely, the passions he pursued wholeheartedly, and the memories he created with those around him. He will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and his fun-loving energy. His legacy lives on in the family he adored, and the countless lives made better by knowing him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.