Gerald “Jerry” E. Smith

Gerald “Jerry” E. Smith, 80, Ida, Mich., died in his home, Jan. 25, 2023, surrounded by his family and love.

Jerry was born Sept. 16, 1942, in Chippewa Falls, the son of Louis and Rosemary Smith.

He grew up in Cornell, and graduated from Cornell High School in 1960. After graduation, Jerry joined the United States Navy and served his country for six years.

After his time in the Navy, he found employment with the North Star Steel company, a company he would work for until his retirement in 2003. During his time at North Star Steel, he worked at mills in Virginia, Illinois, South Carolina, Iowa and finally, Michigan. Jerry was a hard-working and dedicated employee, working his way up from a laborer to managing steel mills.

Jerry loved music and played guitar with friends in small bands wherever he lived. Collecting and restoring old cars, especially Model A Fords, was one of his favorite hobbies and something he was very good at.

He is survived by his wife – Lois; three children – Crystal, Brooks and Brandi; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two sisters – Louann (Lee) Hattamer and Julie (Mike) Hakes; two brothers – Jim (Jackie) Smith and Scot Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter – Dena, and her son – John.

Jerry was loved and will be missed by all who knew him.