Gerald E. Schmiedicke

Gerald Eugene Schmiedicke of Hastings, MI (formerly Clare, MI) passed away on March 13, 2020 at the age of 79. Gerry was born on October 24, 1940 in Grand Rapids, MI. He was preceded in death by his infant son Joseph, his parents Edward and Madeline (Lybarker) Schmiedicke, and his brother Joseph. He is survived by his wife of 53 years Pamela (Koch) and daughters Elizabeth (Omar; grandsons Michael and David) Flores and Jessica (Dustin) Wolff; brothers Thomas (Candice), William (Nancy), and Paul (Lorna); sisters Mary, Linda, Sue Ann, Donna, Rita (Jerry), and Ruth (Russ); and many nieces and nephews.

Before moving to Hastings in 2013, Gerry and Pam operated a farm in Clare County for over 40 years with cattle, horses, field crops, and had the occasional lamb in the house on cold spring nights. The farm also included a cider mill, maple syrup operation, and honey bees. Gerry worked for the State of Michigan in the Department of Health and Human Services for over 30 years, starting as a case worker and advancing to the position of auditing supervisor for state and federal programs.

Known as “The Install Guy,” if you had a problem, Gerry wanted to fix it! An expert carpenter from working with his father Ed and grandfather Ernest, he made everything from picture frames to houses and furniture to garages. Gerry also traveled extensively throughout his life including Ireland where he attended Blackrock College in 1958-59. He also attended Aquinas College and served in the Peace Corp in the Dominican Republic. He was a founding member of the Lion’s Club in Harrison MI, instrumental in establishing the Gateway Farmers Market in Clare, and active in local government in Clare and Barry Counties. Of his many accomplishments, he was most proud of his daughters.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday March 17, 2020 at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Monday from 2-4 & 5-7pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kids Food Basket in Grand Rapids at kidsfoodbasket.org. 

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