Gerald E. Dekker's Obituary
Mr. Gerald E. “Jerry” Dekker, age 85, passed away with his family by his side on Tuesday, September 8, 2020. He was born on September 19, 1934 to Archie and Elizabeth (Wiersma) Dekker. A lifelong resident of the area, Jerry married the former Delores “Dee” Smith and she preceded him in death earlier this year on February 11, 2020, their 64th wedding anniversary. Jerry enjoyed spending his time outdoors hunting, fishing, golfing, and camping with Dee and their three children. He ran the chain gang for North Muskegon High School Football for over 40 years. He was a well-known handyman and tinkerer. Jerry was a proud grandpa and great grandpa, spoiling his grandchildren any chance he got. Jerry will be missed by his children, Donald (Debra) Dekker, Daniel (Shari) Dekker and Debbie (Mark) Pipoly; grandchildren, Antonia (Adam) Cutler, Joshua (Kim) Dekker, Adam (Kathryn) Dekker, Andrea Dekker, Jessica Dekker (fiancé Ryan Fowler), Ashlee (Alex) Mishler and Nikole Pipoly; great-grandchildren, AJ, Madison, Gabriel, Sofia, Nicholas, Elizabeth, Caleb and Devin; many nieces and nephews; and lifelong friend, Richard “Winkie” Wenk. Along with his wife, Dee, Jerry was also preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Adelaide; parents; and siblings, Charles Dekker and Bette Ann Dekker. A burial for both Jerry and Dee will take place 11AM, Friday, September 11 at Laketon Township Cemetery with Dr. Sherwin Brantsen officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Harbor Hospice Foundation or Laketon Bethel Church. Arrangements by The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI, 49442. Please visit the family’s online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.
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