Obituary of Gerald D. Blank

BLANK, Gerald "Jerry" D. of Saginaw, Michigan, formerly of Gladwin, passed away on Friday, July 22, 2011 at Cartwright Hospice Residence. He was 73 years old. Gerald D. Blank was born on July 2, 1938 in Gladwin, MI to the late Harold and Marie (Merkel) Blank. He married Linda Lou Smith on May 7, 1983 in Saginaw. She survives him. Jerry graduated from Gladwin High School in 1957. He was employed by Saginaw Steering Gear and retired after 30 years of service. Jerry was a member of Local #699. He enjoyed spending time with his family, watching his grandchildren play sports, helping others, working in his yard, bowling and an avid NASCAR fan. Jerry is survived by his wife, Linda; eight children: Susan Blank, Tim (Liane) Parasiliti, Tom (Courtney) Parasiliti, Andrea (John) Grzemkowski and Ashley (Chris) Townend; mother-in-law, Nancy Chislea; father-in-law, Martin "Bud" Smith; 10 grandchildren: Lauren, Brooke, John, Thomas, Hunter, Emily, Alyssa, Brittany, Breanna and Rachael; a brother, Bernard (Lois) Blank; a sister, Joyce Cameron; and his special boy, Montreal Andre Pierre. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Angela Parasiliti; brothers-in-law: Rod Smith, Gary Losee and Mike Straight; and his father-in-law, Joseph Chislea. FUNERAL: A funeral service for Jerry will be held at 4:00 p.m. Monday, July 25, 2011 at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Chaplin Gail Crachiola will officiate. According to Jerry's wishes cremation will follow the funeral service. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Monday, July 25, 2011 from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at 4:00 p.m. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Blank family c/o Linda Blank. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com