Stanley William Jesky

Stanley William Jesky, age 79, went into the loving arms of his heavenly father and personal Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, September 15, 2023. Stan was preceded in death by his parents Stanislaw and Maria Gajewski; brothers John, Joe, and Jerry Jesky. He will be remembered and greatly missed by his wife, Yvonne Jesky; children Tate (Michelle) Jesky and Allison Jesky; grandchildren Piper and Bernadette Jesky; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Despite having been born during World War II in a German concentration camp, and surviving a bout with polio early in life, Stan was fortunate enough to immigrate with his family to St. Paul, MN. It was here that he excelled in athletics and was able to make lifelong friendships while attending St. Paul Monroe and later the University of St. Thomas as a three sport athlete (baseball, basketball, and football). His talents in baseball attracted the attention of the Atlanta Braves organization where he spent three seasons. Upon leaving the Braves, he went on to pursue what would be 50 plus years of dedicated service in education, coaching, and athletic administration.

He started his career as a teacher, director of athletics, and coach at Sacred Heart Academy in St. Paul, MN before moving on to Hill-Murray High School. It was there that he taught physical education along with coaching basketball and football. Having the opportunity to grow his career, he pursued the opportunity to become the director of athletics at Florence High School in Wisconsin. He enjoyed a successful tenure where he was honored with accolades from his peers at both the state and national levels. He then moved on to Zeeland High School in Michigan where he spent the final 20 years of his career as the director of athletics and coaching the varsity football team for 12 years before retiring in 2008. Not content with being stagnant, he came out of retirement to coach college basketball for Kuyper College and later with the staff of the Godfrey Lee High School football program. His 45 years as a MHSAA registered track and field official provided him the opportunity to build lifelong friendships as well as the opportunity to work countless state finals. His contributions and influence on the growth of student athletes, coaches, and athletic programs continue to have lasting impacts even after his retirement.

While his professional life was full, he always made time to find the golf course, playing golf almost every day (no matter the season in Michigan) and serving as a starter and ranger at Wallinwood Springs GC.

Visitation with friends and relatives will take place from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, September 28, 2023 at Wallinwood Springs GC in the main clubhouse, as well as 1-3 p.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A celebration of Stan’s life will commence 3 p.m. Saturday, September 30, 2023 immediately following visitation. In honor of Stan and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Stan W. Jesky Memorial Scholarship online at https://gofund.me/4643ca3e. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.