Obituary of Paul Gerard
Paul R. Gerard was born on October 4, 1950, in Toledo, Ohio. He was one of five children born from the union of John and Dorothy Marie (Clark) Gerard. He attended Bedford High School, graduating with the class of 1967. On December 5, 1970, Paul married the love of his life, the former Linda Sue Wohlfeil. Together the happy couple would be blessed with the birth of three children. To provide for his family, Paul took a position with the City of Luna Pier Department of Public Works. He served as a maintenance worker for more than thirty-four years. Paul was very community minded. With the desire to give more of himself in service to others he joined the Luna Pier Fire Department where he remained for twenty years.
To challenge his mind, Paul assembled puzzles, often completing elaborate fifteen-hundred-piece masterpieces. Even though this activity required a lengthy commitment from the average person, Paul seemed to breeze right through in no time. He also dabbled in the three-dimensional versions of puzzles which required intense concentration and focus. His son, Brian, once even purchased a double-sided puzzle, but Paul proved that he was up for the challenge, quickly completing the task.
After his retirement, Paul began spending his free time painstakingly creating one-of-a-kind crosses and walking sticks from wood. These handmade treasures were then gifted to many people he knew, and even a few people he didn’t. Paul never missed an opportunity to cast a line with his family and close friends in any open water, especially spending time in Lake Erie, Lake Michigan, and Sanford Lake, located near Midland, Michigan.
Paul R. Gerard, age 72 of Coleman, Michigan, passed away at his home, surrounded by his family, at 10:03am on Tuesday; May 9, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents; his wife: Linda; a son: Brant D. Gerard; a granddaughter: Dorothy Marie Gerard; two brothers: Mark Douglas Gerard and David Wayne Gerard; and numerous other family members.
To cherish his memory he leaves two sons: Brian D. (Diane) Gerard and Earl (Bobbi) Gerard, a daughter-in-law: Amy Diaz; seven grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.
No public services are planned. Graveside services took place at Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle, Michigan with Pastor Scott of Coleman Wesleyan Church presiding. His care has been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070.
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