Gerald C. Michel (Jerry) went home to be with the Lord after a brief illness on November 1, 2011. He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Eleanor (Ellie); his loving daughter, Linda Schappell and husband, John; grandsons, Jeff and Chris; stepchildren, Joyce Armstrong and husband, Tom; Doug Kresge and wife, Jackie; Duane Kresge and wife, Marcia; Dale Kresge; and David Kresge and wife, Sharon; seven step-grandchildren, and nine step -great- grandchildren. His first wife, Marjorie L. Michel predeceased him, September 10, 1984. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
Jerry was born on October 13, 1921, in Peckville, PA, to Mildred and Elmer Michel. His brothers were Elmer and Lee.
Jerry served with the United States Army during World War II, receiving a Purple Heart due to injuries received during the Battle of the Bulge. He loved his country and was proud to have served.
Jerry was a 25-year member of Calvary Church of Charlotte, NC. Previously he was a member of Central Baptist Church of Binghamton, NY, where he was a Sunday School teacher, member of the calling team, member of the board of trustees, and chairman of the building committee. Jerry was also a past chairman of Christian Businessmen’s Committee of the Triple Cities. He was board chairman of the Triple Cities Rescue Mission.
His faithfulness to the Lord was unsurpassed. A soul-winner for the last sixty years, Jerry never met anyone that he didn’t want to spend eternity with in Heaven, asking everyone with whom he came into contact if they knew the Lord as their Savior. He was a liaison between the Billy Graham Association and local theaters during the release of several BGA films over the years. He was an evangelist at heart. He looked expectantly for the return of Christ, wanting those around him to be sure of their readiness for His return as well. Jerry’s love for the Word of God was evident in his ability to quote chapter and verse for any of life’s circumstances. He was a voracious reader, who couldn’t get enough of books about Scripture, which was evident by his extensive library.
One of his life-loves was the care and rescue of dogs. He had a deep appreciation for the loyalty and companionship that dogs provide. Among his numerous hobbies was the love of working in his yard. He had a talent and vision for landscape design, which created beautiful places of solitude and reflection.
The Lord blessed Jerry with nearly perfect health until the end of his life, which is something his family, is very grateful for.
We, as his family, will miss his wisdom, humor, and spiritual discussions.
We love you and are thankful for the promise of Scripture that we will be seeing you again soon!
A graveside service for family members will be December 15, 2011, at Arlington National Cemetery.
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