Gerald (Jerry) Joseph Gunville Sr , age 91 passed away quietly at home on September 28, 2020.
He was born in Spaulding, MI on December 24, 1928 to Louis and Cecile Gunville. Gerald was the oldest of three children. Jerry married Patricia Marie Lantagne on May 28, 1955. Jerry served his country in the Air Force and returned home and started his music career. His band, “Jerry Gunville Orchestra” was popular throughout the UP. His band also played on local radio. Jerry enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching sports on TV and playing cards with family. Jerry worked at Northern Motor Rebuilders and once retired Jerry and Pat would travel in their motorhome exploring new places in the US and Canada. Jerry enjoyed being with his family, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was a long-time member of St Joseph Parrish.
Jerry is survived by three sons: Gerald (Karla) Gunville, James (Sandy) Gunville and Robert (Theresa) Gunville.
Seven grandchildren: Kristen (Jerry) Eckert, Sean (Jodie) Gunville, Amanda (William) Braun, Lila Gunville, Ashton Gunville, Courtney Gunville, and Brittany (Michael) Topf. Six great grandchildren: Harper and Finley Gunville, Cecilia and Mabel Braun, Averie and Allie Kruger. Jerry is also survived by one sister, Charlotte (James) Carriveau and many special nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Cecile Gunville, his spouse Patricia Gunville, and one sister Lenore (George) Challier.
The family will receive friends on Friday, October 9 from 11:00 AM to 12:15 PM at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Military Honors will be presented by the Delta County Veterans Council at 12:15 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:00 PM at the St. Joseph and St. Patrick Parish in Escanaba with Fr. Timothy Ferguson officiating. Gerald will be laid to rest in the Gardens of Rest Cemetery.
Masks and social distancing are recommended at the funeral and church and will be appreciated by the family and staff.
Scott Rivard - Chaska, Mn
Jerry was the most kindness of a man would not think twice too help anyone.
Will miss my old hunting buddy great man..
Marilyn Chilli (DeRouin) - Rensselaer , IN
He will be sadly missed. My parents Harvey and Virginia DeRouin used to visit Gerald and Patsy often when I was a child happy Times.
Courtney Gunville - Lake Geneva , WI
My dearest grandpa, you had been a wonderful grandpa to me and my sisters. You have no idea how much you influenced us to love our own life and do something what we like. You and grandma are so special to many people. You were always so patient and hopeful. Love you so much with all my heart, grandpa Gerald “Jerry”. We will always support each other for you and grandma. <3
Patty Derouin - Escanaba, MI
Jerry is such a kind man. He was so positive and always had a smile on his face. He never hesitated to ask how you were doing. I’m sure he missed Pat very much and now they are together again. They are great people and I’m glad to have known them along with my kids.
Donna Pepin - Escanaba, Mi
Thoughts are with you all.He was such a sweet man and always had a smile when we would see him and Patsy out.
Andrew Paulin - Newton, wi
I am so glad I had a chance to know Mr. Gunville. I saw how courteous and caring he was to his “Polka Band” piano player back in the 70s when I had the privilege of being in the “Rock and Roll” part of his wedding reception gigs with his son and my pal Gerald Jr. He always had a smile and loved putting out the polka tunes. It was amazing how great a drum set cymbal sounds when hit with a trumpet. Thanks for having me along Mr. Gunville!!
Mary & Mark Vermote - Escanaba, MI
Such a wonderful, loving man. The thought of him always warms my heart and makes me smile. I hold Jerry & Patsy in a special place in my heart.
Our condolences are with all of you.
I am so sorry I won’t be able to get off work for the services but you will all be in my prayers.
Joan DeKeyser - Rapid River, MI
My prayers and sympathy to the Gunville family, especially to Robert and Terry. Joan DeKeyser