Gerald L. Roberts

Gerald Lee Roberts, age 91 of Grand Rapids, Michigan, was welcomed into paradise Wednesday, November 29, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents Merrill and Margaret (Wassenaar) Roberts; brother and sister-in-law Arnold and Virginia Roberts; brothers William Roberts and Glenn Roberts; and niece, Alison (Denise) Marshall.

He is survived and lovingly missed by his brother and best friend, Jack (Linda) Roberts; sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Roberts; nieces and nephews Beth (Boyce) Smith, Joseph (Belinda) Roberts, Mary Roberts Edwards, Kathleen (Sandy) Landgren, Ileen (David) VanSolkema, Christopher (Irene) Roberts, Wendy (Bernard) Faryniarz, Jeffrey (Shelly) Roberts; along with his many great- and great-great-nieces and -nephews; numerous cousins and friends.

Gerald (Jerry, Chirp) grew up on the family farm. He proudly served his country from December 15, 1953 until December 1, 1955 as a cryptographer in the United States Army. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to the family farm to partner with his father in the daily responsibilities and tasks of being a cattle farmer while also maintaining a successful chicken business. During this time he was also employed with the United States Post Office and belonged to the Michigan Hereford Association as well the American Hereford Association. One of his favorite things in life was spending time on the farm, out in the fields with his Hereford cattle. He will forever be remembered for his calm, quiet nature, quick wit, and his extreme patience with the endless questions of his nieces and nephews while they were growing up. He is by far their favorite uncle!

The family would like to thank each and every person that visited, called, reminisced, laughed, cried, prayed, and just showed that they cared during these last several months. We would also like to thank a few of his caregivers that went above and beyond the requirements of their job descriptions (you know who you are). Your compassion and caring did not go unnoticed, and we are forever grateful!

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at Cook Funeral Home (West Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan, with a Rosary at 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 6, 2023, with visitation one hour prior, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3937 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Fr. Steven Durkee will be officiating. In lieu of flowers and in memory of Jerry, memorial contributions may be made to God’s Kitchen, American Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice.The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guest book online.