Rock, MI
Gerald Michael “Mike” Kanerva, age 84, of Rock passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, April 18, 2025 at his home in Rock.
Mike was born April 25, 1940 in Ishpeming, MI the son of Leo and Paula (Heikkila) Kanerva. He attended Rock area schools.
Mike spent many years working on the family farm. He eventually moved downstate and became a Plumber Pipefitter with the Local Union 111. He was musically gifted and loved playing his guitar. You could find him enjoying and spending time out in his saw mill. He also liked to take saunas and particularly adored his grandchildren.
Mike was a member of Rock Bible Chapel for over 40 years.
On November 13, 1976, Mike was united in marriage to Virgie Komisar and together they spent 48 loving years.
In addition to his loving Wife, Virgie, he is survived by:
Sons: Michael (Kelly), Jerry (Barb), Bobby (Terri), Brad (Penny), Eric (Jill) and Daughter: Diana “Dee Dee”
Grandkids: Brandy, Brittany, Melanie, Jessica, Ryan, Bobby Jr., Aaron, Kristi, Lexi, Angela, Bradley Jr., Andria, Megan, Preston, Emily, Brienna, Kandy, Maranda, Warren Jr., Varonica and Audra.
In addition, 48 Great Grandchildren and Great Great Grandchildren.
Sisters: Toni Rentola, Lynn Kanerva, Christine (Phillip) Croasdell
And several Nieces and Nephews.
Mike is preceded in death by his Parents, Brothers, Tom and David
Sister, Bonnie Mattson
and Grandson, Eric Thompson Jr., Nephew Davey Kanerva, Mother-in- law, Granny, and 4 Great Grandbabies.
A special thank you to Kelly, Bobbie, Toni Marie and Brienna for their never ending help, loyalty and love. Also thank you to the OSF Hospice Team
Family will receive friends on Saturday, April 26 from Noon until 2:00 PM at the Rock Bible Chapel in Rock. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM with Pastor Mike Lepisto officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall and burial will take place in Rock Cemetery.
Tamara Ranta - Caspian, MI
This man was a good husband, good brother and a good person. His life was happy and solid because of his family and even more because of his wife Virgie. She was his greatest fan and greatest support. I remember Mike with great respect and fondness. He was there for me when I lost my husband; his brother, and my son; his nephew. Godspeed Mike Kanerva. I hope your passing is a new beginning.
Ronald Kaminen - Littleton, CO
Elaine and I extend our sympathies to the entire Kanerva family on the loss your brother Mike. I always enjoyed talking with him and his humor.