Gerald "Jerry" Downing, 75 of Rockland, Michigan passed away peacefully on Monday, June 13, 2011 after a brief illness.

Jerry was born November 25, 1935 in Hurontown, Michigan to Edward and Mae (Stark) Downing. He graduated from Rockland High School in 1953. Following graduation, Jerry served his county honorably as a Marine in the Korean War. In 1961, Jerry married Patricia (Razmus) Downing. Together, they had four children: Jerry, Lori, Shane and Lynette. Jerry worked at the Smurfit-Stone Container Corporation for over 25 years as a heavy equipment operator.

As a younger man, Jerry enjoyed bird hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Rockland American legion as well as a life-long fan of Detroit Tiger baseball and Red Wing hockey. Jerry's greatest passion, however, remained his family.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Sharon Killoran. He is survived by his four children, Jerry (Debbie) of Colorado Springs, CO., Lori (Al) Chamberlain of Aurora, MN., Shane (Teri) of Fort Collins, CO., and Lynette (Fred) Aiken of Howell, MI., as well as three siblings: Don (Jan) Downing, Pam (Bill) Roman and Dee Dee (Bob) O'Connell. In addition, Jerry is survived by fourteen adoring grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren who brought him great pride and with whom he enjoyed spending his time. He will be greatly missed by all.

A memorial service to honor Jerry's life will take place on Saturday, September 3, 2011 at 1 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in Rockland, Michigan. Inurnment will take place, with military honors, at the Woodlawn Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Faith In Action Volenteers, 316 Copper Street, Ontonagon, MI 49953.