Gerald \"Jerry\" Ogrin

September 14, 1940 – November 18, 2020

Cremation will take place and no services are scheduled at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation or the American Cancer Society, c/o the funeral home.

Obituary

Gerald James Ogrin, or Jerry, as he was known to most, fought lung cancer valiantly, but sadly passed away on November 18, 2020, from COVID-19, peacefully at home with his daughters, Jennifer, Sarah and Nicole by his side. He was born in Kalamazoo on September 14, 1940, the son of the late Max and Mary (Pryson) Ogrin. He was a graduate of St. Augustine High School Class of 1959. Jerry was a fun-loving Father who was immensely proud of his daughters and enjoyed sharing their accomplishments and adventures with his friends and family. He was a character, and his daughters enjoyed his various “Jerryisms”. He also enjoyed spending time with his sons-in-law, Brian, Jason and Brad, drinking a few beers and sharing memories. Jerry cherished the strong bond with his siblings, Jeanne, and Bob, as well as their spouses, and enjoyed hearing about his nephews, niece and great nephews. He valued his friendships, some of which extended over 60 years, and he was especially thankful for their love and support after being diagnosed with cancer. He was an avid golfer, reader, and collector for most of his life. He loved refinishing furniture and was passionate about antiques and clocks. Jerry was proud of his many years of perfect attendance during his time working at Stryker Instruments. He loved Westerns and the Andy Griffith Show. He enjoyed planting his flowers in the Spring and decorating for Christmas every Winter. Jerry served our country with honor in the Army Reserves and was a member of the Moose Lodge and VFW. His kind smile, laughter and great personality will be missed by all who loved him. He is survived by his loving daughters, Jennifer (Brian) Nunnally, Sarah (Jason Frydl) Ogrin, Nicole (Brad Sperbeck) Ogrin; siblings, Jeanne (Ed) Kozerski, Robert (Penny) Ogrin; two nephews, a niece, numerous great-nephews and four “grand-dogs”. He was also preceded in passing by his companion Vickie.

<< Obituaries

Subscribe
Notify of
4 Guestbook
Larry Frost
5 years ago

My friendship with Jerry goes back 60 years. He was the best man in my wedding. So many great memories. His lifelong nickname of “muffins” will never be forgotten. May he Rest In Peace. You have my deepest sympathy.

Maria Scott
5 years ago

Nicole, I met you from my time working the front desk at the KIA. Blessings to you and your family. Your father sounds like a lovely man and now I see some of where you get your personality and kindness from. A loving hug to you and your family, Nicole. Maria Scott

Buzz Maartens
5 years ago

Sorry to read about Jerry, Bob. I knew him a long time, but hadn’t seen him in the last couple years. Didn’t know he was in the rough shape he was in. My thoughts and condolences to you and the family.

Chadwick Pryson
5 years ago

RIP, Cousin Jerry. I heard from Rob recently that you were no longer with us. I recall a hitch-hiking trip you and Rob made to Tennessee in the early sixties. I couldn’t have been more than six or seven. You gave me your zippo lighter to play with and it’s a wonder I didn’t burn the woods down behind the house! Godspeed and say Hi to your Uncle Joe for me.