Obituary of Gerald J. Kukla

Our beloved father, grandfather and dear friend passed away peacefully at home on March 20, 2021 with his daughter, Sherry, at his side. Gerald J. Kukla was born on May 23, 1930 in Bay City to the late Stanley and Frances (Kuczkowski) Kukla. He married Patricia Bauml on June 1, 1961, and she preceded him in death on January 1, 1998. Gerald was a faithful member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and the Polaski Club. Jerry was retired from his businesses, Kukla Enterprises and Dekuk Tool Dealer LLC. His son, Randy, served as Vice President. A very special "Thank You" to Valerie Haberland, Jerry's right hand in business as well taking care of his home when Jerry and Pat went on vacation. Jerry's passion was golf, horses, gardening and bird watching. He was a former member of the Bay City Country Club and the Saginaw Country Club. He started the "Polish Open" at Swan Valley Country Club and ran it for years. His love for golf took him all over the state with his best friend Jerry Langenburg. Gerald is survived by his son, Randy Kukla; daughters: Sherry (Tom) Pietryga and Patti (Dave) Reinhardt; six grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Gerald was preceded in death by his sister Florence Ostash and four brothers: Marion, Leonard, Raymond and Floyd Kukla. FUNERAL: A funeral liturgy for Gerald will be held on Friday, March 26, 2021 at 10:30 AM from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 5376 State St., Saginaw, Michigan 48603. Rev. Fr. Richard A. Bokinskie will officiate with burial to follow at St. Patrick Cemetery, Bay City. VISITATION: Family and friends are welcome to gather at the church on Friday from 9:30 AM until the time of service. MEMORIALS: Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial contribution to Heartland Hospice, 1426 Straits Dr., Bay City, MI 48706. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the church or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com