Obituary of Jason Gempel

Gempel, Jason

Saginaw, Michigan

Jason Gempel, loving spouse, father, and dear friend tragically passed away on Saturday, October 28, 2023 from injuries sustained in an accident. He was 51 years old. Jason was known to always show for those who needed him at any time of day or night. To meet him was to feel like you’ve known him your entire life. His laughter, kindness, and loyalty were truly one of a kind. He was the friend and companion you wanted to have, and simultaneously the friend and companion you’d someday hope to be.

Jason found so much joy in life, particularly in fishing, racing his cars and snowmobiles, hunting, playing with his puppies Solomon and Clarke, and rocking out to some good live music. His true, happiest place was when he was with the love of his life of 20 years, Heidi. They enjoyed their nightly fishing trips, traveling to see their favorite bands, especially Soulfly, and enjoying a good spicy Bloody Mary at the end of a long work day. He loved spending time with his closest friends and family, and his dogs who he always considered family. He was incredibly skilled in seemingly every way, and was proud to have owned and operated his own business that he built.

Jason is survived by his spouse, Heidi Strauss; their daughter and son-in-law, Alyssa (Thomas) Jesselaitis; mom, Sharon Gempel; dad, Jack Gempel; brother, John Gempel; niece, Mary (Brandy Briones) Gempel; and great niece, Ella. He is survived by several lifelong friends he considered family. Jason was preceded in death by his grandparents: Keith and Joyce Ostrander; and beloved dogs, Savior, Zeus, Max, and Emmit.

FUNERAL: A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 3, 2023 at the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State), Saginaw, MI 48603. Reverend Ted McCulloch will officiate.

VISITATION: Family and friends will gather at the funeral home on Friday, November 3, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. and then visitation will continue following the service until 8:00 p.m.

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to Saginaw County Animal Care Center Resource Center.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd. (off State), Saginaw, MI 48603. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com.