Gerald T. “Jerry” Truckey, age 82, of Three Rivers, died Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2019 in the comfort of his own home and surrounded by loved ones after a brief battle with cancer. He was born in Leonidas on June 26, 1937 the son of Joseph P. and Eva (Parker) Truckey. Jerry was a 1955 Colon High School graduate. He had a passion for sports and held the batting average record for one year until his little brother, Hambone broke it.
Jerry worked in construction in his early years until he found his niche as a restauranteur. He then set about opening three restaurants, and was still currently operating The Fisher Lake Inn. Jerry loved his sports, and was a devoted Notre Dame fan. Packing the green bus with Irish fans and heading to South Bend on game day was always a favorite. He also loved the Detroit Tigers and looked forward to his annual baseball trip with the boys. Jerry enjoyed pontooning around Fishers Lake in the summer, and looked forward to winters in Florida. Jerry had a natural ability to make friends wherever he went.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Caroll Forreider; three daughters, Lisa (Jerry) Purk, ChrisAnn (Marc) Mott, and Jerri Lynn (David) Geib; three sons, Dan (Heidi) Truckey, Jeff (Courtney) Truckey, and James Truckey; two step-children, Thomas Bickel and Brenda Schoo; ten grandchildren whom he loved dearly; nine great-grandchildren that brought him much joy; a brother, John (Marilynn) Truckey; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by four brothers, Bob, Bud, Jumbo, and Bill.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation has been conducted. A private service for family only will be held at 1:00 pm Monday, Nov. 11, 2019 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon with Msgr. Thomas Martin officiating. Friends are invited to join Jerry’s family for remembrance and celebration at the Fisher Lake Inn from 3:00 to 6:00 pm on Monday, Nov. 11, 2019.
It is suggested that memorial contributions be directed to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) 6955 W. KL Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com