Jerry Monk

Jerry Francis Monk, age 84, of Ontonagon, passed away on Thanksgiving day, November 26th, at Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital. .

Jerry was born in a log cabin in Eckerman, Michigan on April 29th, 1936 to Mildred and Francis Monk. After graduating from Whitefish Township High School, he enlisted in the Navy and served 4 years as an Engineman 3rd class aboard the large cruiser, USS Worcester (CL-144).

Upon leaving the Navy, he went to work for the DNR at Tahquamenon Falls park in 1960. He transferred to the Porcupine Mountain State park in August of 1961 as a foreman working with prisoners on work crews. He later worked as the chief mechanic at the park until retirement. Jerry met Carol at a pizza party at the Porkies. He didn’t like her very much because he thought she was a show-off, but I guess he changed his mind, because they married in September of 1962. Ten months later Gary was born and 15 months after that David was born.

Jerry was a prolific guitar player and played with a local band, Easy Money, for many years. He also played many years with the most dominant softball team in the county, Dry Dock. Soon he discovered golf and gave up softball because “it screws up my swing”. Golf became one of his many passions. He was a jack of all trades and could fix just about anything by himself. He had countless hobbies and always kept himself very busy. He was a great husband, great father, and an all around great dude. He will be missed.

He is survived by his wife Carol and sons Gary and David.

Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements

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