Gerald "Jerry" W. Derks, Sr.

Gerald W. “Jerry” Derks, Sr., age 83 of Newaygo, was called by the Lord to his Heavenly Home on Thursday, July 6, 2023 after a brief illness.  He was born on September 28, 1939 in Fremont, Michigan to Henry & Gertrude (Vredeveld) Derks.  Jerry had served in the US Air Force, and he had owned & operated Derks Marine/American Anchor in Newaygo for over 50 years.  He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, & great-grandchildren.  On November 15, 1958 he married Carol J. Peresada, and she preceded him in death on June 18, 2019.  Jerry was also preceded in death by son-in-law, John Hudson; parents; brothers, Max Derks & Raymond Derks; sisters:  Carol Siersema, Arlene Plaisier, & Marian Smith.  He is survived by 5 children:  Gerald “JR” (Marlene) Derks, Jr. of Hesperia, Timothy Derks of Big Rapids, Patricia Hudson of Grand Rapids, Teresa Rodgers of Big Rapids, Jason Derks of Jacksonville, Florida; 19 grandchildren & 24 great-grandchildren; sisters & brother:  Nancy Robinson of Fremont, Bill Derks of Newaygo, Linda (Michael) Deur of Newaygo; brother-in-law, Robert Smith of Fremont; and by many nieces & nephews.  Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Jerry’s life will take place at Fremont United Methodist Church on Thursday, July 20, 2023 at 3:00 PM with his brother-in-law, Michael Deur officiating.  A meal will immediately follow the service at church.  Suggested Memorial:  Fremont United Methodist Church Building Fund.  You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com.  Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc. of Fremont.

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