Gerald Louis Nemitz

Gerald “Jerry” L. Nemitz, 80, of St. Joseph, MI passed away Thursday, May 22, 2014 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, with his loving family by his side. A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at  Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd. St. Joseph with Pastor Michael Roth officiating. Burial to follow at RiverviewCemetery in St.   Joseph. Friends may visit from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 27 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to TrinityLutheranChurch, St. Joseph, or Hospice at Home. Those wishing to sign Jerry’s guestbook may do so online at www.starks-menchinger.com. Jerry was born February 12, 1934 in St. Joseph, MI to William & Helen (Burke) Nemitz. He graduated from St. JosephHigh School in 1952.  On May 12, 1956 he wed Marylin Mitchell in St. Joseph, MI. Jerry went on to work for Coca-Cola for 35 years, starting as a deliveryman and ending his career as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing. He was an avid fisherman with his friend Wilbur Schillinger as often as he could. Lifelong friend, Ray Radde grew together into adulthood, sharing holidays, laughter, and famous long island ice tea.  Jerry loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Marylin; sons Bill (Sue) Nemitz of St. Joseph, and Steve Nemitz of St. Joseph; grandchildren Nicole Nemitz of St. Joseph, Erik “Sach” Peden of Benton Harbor, Stacy “Fritz” Nemitz of St. Joseph, and Drew Peden on St. Joseph, step-granddaughter Marilyn (Adam) Jones of St. Joseph; great-grandchildren Elizabeth Pudell, Alyse Peden and Kameron Peden and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter Deborah “Debbie” Nemitz on September 18, 2013 and his brother William Nemitz,.