Gerald John Baranek

Gerald “Jerry” John Baranek, 79, of Essexville, our compassionate, intelligent, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, passed away on November 5, 2023, with his family by his side at McLaren Bay Region.

Jerry was born on September 2, 1944, in Bay City, the son of the late Edward and Virginia (Jezewski) Baranek. Jerry grew up in Bay City and graduated from St. Stanislaus High School, where he developed a thirst for knowledge that would stay with him throughout his life.

While in college, through mutual friends, Jerry Baranek met the former Marguerite Hahn. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on May 8, 1965, at St. Pancratius Church, Cass City, Michigan. They enjoyed over 57 years of raising their family and making countless memories. Sadly, Marguerite passed away on August 20, 2022 which left Jerry heartbroken and lost without his one true love. Jerry was a devoted husband that adored being with his wife. The family finds comfort in knowing they are forever reunited.

Jerry pursued his passion for craftsmanship and became a skilled barber and shop owner.
He then embarked on a 30-year career as a laborer in the automotive industry, dedicating himself to General Motors. After his retirement from General Motors as a foreman, he found fulfillment working for Ace Hardware in Traverse City, Michigan, where he continued to make a positive impact on those around him.

A faithful member of St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, Jerry found solace and comfort in his faith. He lived his life with honesty and integrity, exemplifying the values instilled in him by his Catholic upbringing.

In his leisure time, Jerry enjoyed the great outdoors, indulging in activities such as hunting, fishing, and camping. Jerry was a proud member of the National Rifle Association (NRA), the Michigan Sheriffs Association, and UAW Local 362. His love for nature was complemented by his passion for reading, remodeling homes and restoring vehicles, dune buggies and snowmobiles. Jerry’s diverse interests showcased his inquisitive mind and his eagerness to continuously learn and grow.

Jerry leaves to carry his legacy his children, Scott Andrew Baranek, Traci Marie Campbell; grandsons, Graham and Cooper Campbell, Wyatt Steele and Christian Fingerhut; siblings, Joseph Baranek and Barbara (Richard) LaPan; sisters-in-law, Linda Baranek, Karen (Greg) Faydenko, and Brenda Hahn; along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Baranek; brother-in-law, Edward Hahn, and sisters-in-laws, Yvonne Nye and Jeanne Grossman.

Jerry’s family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM with a 6:00 PM Vigil at Skorupski Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 821 N. Pine Rd., between Ridge and Center. On Friday, November 10, 2023, Jerry will be taken to St. Jude Thaddeus Parish (St. John the Evangelist Church), 614 Pine St., Essexville, where visiting will continue from 10:00 AM until Jerry’s 11:00 AM Funeral Liturgy. Fr. Bert Gohm will preside with cremation to follow. The Rite of Committal will be held privately in St. Patrick Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to wishes of the family. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com.