Gerold Wayne Merchant

Gerold Wayne "Jerry" Merchant, of Grand Junction passed away on Friday December 4, 2020 at the age of 92. Jerry was born on December 17, 1927 in in Bangor, Michigan. Jerry is preceded in death by his wife, Emmy; his parents Albert and Delberta (Hurley) Merchant; two brothers Ed and Merl; and two sisters: Joyce Mosher and Dolores West. Jerry is survived by his two children; Geraldine (Michael Franz) Cook of Arlington Heights, IL; Steven (Chris Spencer) Merchant of St. Petersburg, FL; his two granddaughters Victoria (Christopher) Letourneau of Shannon, IL; Laura Cook of Arlington Heights, IL; his great-grandson Jackson Hanley: one sister Greta Jervis of Hampton, VA: and several nieces and nephews. When Jerry was a young man, he performed a variety act that took him all over the country, from church basements to burlesque houses. He performed a tap dance routine on a small table while wearing roller skates! While out on the road he met his future wife, Emmy. They married on November 15, 1952 in Chicago, where they raised their family. Jerry moved back to Michigan when he retired in 1989. Jerry was an avid fisherman and joke teller. He loved to make people laugh. Even total strangers, who many times because friends. Even though Jerry didn't live long enough to have his picture on the Smucker's jar, he lived a long life. He was loved by many and will be dearly missed. According to Jerry's wishes, cremation has taken place. Due to Covid-19, a memorial service will be held at a later date. Jerry was always willing to help someone out if he could. In his honor the family asks that you please make a donation to a local food pantry. While visiting Jerry's webpage please take time to sign his guestbook by lighting a candle and/or sharing a memory with his family. The family is being assisted by Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 129 S. Grand, Schoolcraft, MI 49087 (269) 679-5622.