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Jerry P. Chartrand, age 85, of Mendon, passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025 in Three Rivers after a long illness. He was born on September 25, 1939 in Bronson, MI the son of Kenneth and Letha (Bottomly) Chartrand. Jerry attended Mendon High School and was part of the 1957 graduating class. On October 28, 1961 he married Carol Ann Sutton in Mendon. From 1957 to 1997, Jerry worked at Continental Can Company and Fonda. During that time, he was also the president of the United Paperworkers Union for 20 years, ensuring his fellow employees were always looked after.
Jerry was heavily involved with Mendon High School sports. He was part of the “chain gang” for many years during Hornet home games, taking stats for the football teams, and lending a hand anyway he knew how. In 1972 Jerry and Lee Griffith would start-up the Mendon Rocket Football program (which would eventually lead to a 1982 state championship). For a few years he also coached in the Mendon Little League, teaching kids the basics of baseball. Jerry was a member of the Sturgis Bowling Association and had a league team, sponsored by Harry Eickhoff, which included characters such as Herb Johnson, Maurice Cupp, Bob Jones, and many substitute bowlers (these stories cannot be shared here).
Jerry is survived by his 3 children; Tonya Chartrand, Robert (Selenia) Chartrand, and Mikel Chartrand; 8 grandchildren; Kevin Lytle, Stephanie Chartrand, Jalen Chartrand, Kasy Chartrand, Katriel Chartrand, Joe Chartrand, Zac Chartrand, and Sarena Dentler; 9 great-grandchildren; Emelia, Savanna, Reagan, Freya, Leina, Lucian, Sarenidee, Heighden, and Axten; 3 siblings; Sandy Ellis, Sally (Alden “Punk”) Bingaman, and Tom Chartrand; and many nieces, nephews, and extended families. He was preceded in passing by his parents; Kenneth and Letha Chartrand; brother-in-law; Vernon Ellis; and his wife of 52 years, Carol Chartrand.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation is being conducted. A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 2pm until 4pm at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. A private burial in Mendon Cemetery will take place at a later date. Condolences and memories may be expressed to Jerry’s family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
