Geraldine “Gerry” L. Fairbrother passed away on Monday September 9, 2019 at the age of 96. Gerry was born on July 15, 1923 in Grand Rapids to the late L.B. and Aurta Bignall. She was a graduate of Michigan State University and also an avid fan. Gerry was very active in many groups including the Caledonia Women’s Club and Santa Claus Girls. She served her community on the Caledonia School Board where she worked hard to get women’s sports recognized. Most of her life was spent helping on the farm, carting kids to sports activities and 4H clubs. She loved nothing more than having her family around.
She will be lovingly remembered by her children Judith (Chuck) Hoebeke, Patrick (Chris) Fairbrother, Janet Blanshine, Jim (Karen) Fairbrother, Michael (Penny) Fairbrother; 18 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, nephew Bert (Deb) Torres and many other nieces and nephews. Gerry was preceded in death by her loving husband Vernon Fairbrother, her brother Rex Bignall and sister Sue Williams. The family would like to thank Spectrum Hospice and the Village of Heather Hills for all the love and help with mom over the last four years.
The funeral service will be held at 11am on Friday September 13th at the Metcalf and Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday from 7-9pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Caledonia Women’s Club or the Santa Claus Girls.
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