Gerald John Seiner

1941 - 2017

Gerald John Seiner
1941 - 2017
Gerald John Seiner, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family February 2nd, 2017. Jerry was born to Sophie Len Seiner and Steve Seiner in Dearborn, Michigan on December 28, 1941. He was raised in an automotive environment (his father was Henry Ford's personal electrician) and the automotive business became his life's passion.
In his younger days, Jerry was known as a premier drummer, playing with many local bands at the clubs in Dearborn. His love of music continued throughout his life. After graduation, Jerry served in the US Army. He married Martha Oldenburg, and had two children, Sandra and Jerry, Jr. They later divorced. In 1994, he married the love of his life, Sharon. They had one son, James. Together, Jerry and Shari spent time in the Cayman Islands, swam with stingrays, learned to scuba dive and enjoyed the local music in their travels. They particularly enjoyed their annual graze through Michigan and visits to Mackinac Island in the fall.
Jerry began his career in automotive advertising for the Detroit News and the Wall Street Journal. Seeing the success that could be achieved in the automotive retail business, he purchased his first dealership in Cadillac, Michigan in 1975. In 1980, Chevrolet offered him an opportunity to buy a dealership in Salt Lake City. From there, Jerry built a successful business that includes several franchises along the Wasatch Front. He served as a member of the General Motors' President's Council for 18 years and was named General Motor's "Dealer of the Year." In 2016, he was inducted into the New Car Dealers of Utah Hall of Fame.
Jerry's greatest satisfaction in business came from mentoring his employees and guiding them from entry level positions to senior management. Some of his key employees had been with him over 30 years -- these individuals are Jerry's business family. Jerry's long time employees and customers are testimony to his motto- "Making Friends to Last a Lifetime."
Jerry made significant contributions to the community, serving in leadership roles for Make-A-Wish of Utah, the Board of Trustees for Judge Memorial Catholic High School, and the University of Utah Advisory Board of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. He was honored with the Catholic Community Services "Creative Corporate Sponsor" Award for his contributions to the homeless and refugee populations. Jerry had a special place in his heart for the Carmelite Sisters, who dedicate their lives to prayer.
He is survived by wife, Shari, who supported him throughout his illness, his children, Sandra Hemmersmeier (Chris), Jerry Jr., Jimmy; and his grandchildren Stephen, Tim, Sean Hemmersmeier, and Max Seiner; his brother Steve (Alice) Seiner; nieces and nephews; as well as the 350 employees who were in his business family.
Jerry's favorite quote is from Anne Frank: "The good news is that you really don't know how great you can be, how much you can love, what you can accomplish, and what your potential is." He asks that everyone go out and live up to their potential and do good.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Cathedral of the Madeleine on Thursday, February 9th, 331 East South Temple, at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, Jerry requests donations are made to his beloved Carmelite Sisters at the Carmel of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Monastery, 5714 S. Holladay Blvd., Salt Lake City, 84121, Phone: 801-277-6075.
Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.starksfuneral.com