Obituary of Gerald J. Reid

REID, Gerald J. of Lake, Michigan, formerly of Saginaw, passed away peacefully at his daughter's home on Thursday, July 21, 2011. He was 84 years old. Gerald J. Reid was born on January 18, 1927, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Margaret M. (Schmidt) Reid. He married Jessie Marie Short on June 16, 1954 in Saginaw; she preceded him in death on August 14, 2005. Gerald proudly enlisted into the United States Merchant Marines, at 17 years old, serving during WWII. He then transferred into the U.S. Army serving in the 571st Military Police Company in Japan during the Korean War. Gerald then entered the U.S. Air Force working as a Military Police Officer in Texas. He was employed as a salesman at Seagrams; retiring after 37 years of Service. Following his military career, Gerald returned to Saginaw and played Semi-Professional Football with the Bay City All Stars. He loved golfing, sailing and spending time with his family. He was truly a wonderful man and touched the lives of many. Throughout his life Gerald had the honor of mentoring many high school students. He was a member of St. John Vianney Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus Council #4232. Surviving is a daughter, Debra (William) Van Aelst of Lake, Michigan; five grandchildren: Patrick, Anthony, and Nicholas (Sherri) Benton, William Van Aelst and Mandy (Brian) Jones; three great grandchildren: Marissa, Ashley, and Caden; a brother, Wallis (Mary) Reid; niece and nephews: Sherrie (Terry), Jim, Chris, and Erich. FUNERAL: Gerald's Funeral Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 25, 2011 at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State). Rev. Fr. Richard E. Jozwiak will officiate. Rite of Committal and Military Honors will be conducted at St. Andrew Cemetery under the auspices of V.F.W. Post 1859. VISITATION: Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Sunday, July 24, 2011 from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m. and on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Knights of Columbus Council #4232 will pray the Rosary on 3:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Mid-Michigan Hospice - Clare and the American Cancer Society. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.deislerfuneralhome.com