Monte R. Geralds

Monte Robert Geralds, age 79,passed away April 23, 2014. Beloved husband of Barbara, loving father of Jeffrey (Sheryl) Geralds, Cameron (Kathleen) Geralds, Scott (Dawn) Geralds, Laurie Geralds and the late Cynthia Geralds-Suarez. Monte is also survived by his sisters Norene (Anthony) Perisi, Gwendolyn Geralds-Ervasti; brothers Glenn (Lois) Geralds, Gary (Joanie) Geralds, Graham (Karen) Geralds; brother in-law- Michael (Barbara) Bunnell; and predeceased by Gerard (Lorene) Geralds and Gilbert (Martha) Geralds. He will be missed by his grandchildren, Ian,(Tiffany) Geralds, Sara (Geralds) , Kyle (Katie) Geralds, Andrea (Gene) Geralds- Taylor, Jodi Geralds, Jane Suarez and John Suarez. He will be remembered by his great-grandchildren, Zain, Kammi, Alexandria, Amanda, Kaylie, Simran, Morgan and Gene. Monte is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, May 2, 2014 from 2:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Edward Swanson & Son Funeral Home 30351 Dequindre Madison Heights, Michigan 48071. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak 529 Hendrie Blvd. Royal Oak, Michigan 48067.

Monte was born on September 10, 1934 in Huntington, West Virginia, and later settled in Pleasant Ridge, Michigan. He attended Lincoln High School in Ferndale, Michigan and graduated in 1952. Monte enrolled at Wayne State University where me met Barbara, and received a law degree. Monte and Barbara were married in July of 1956 and moved to Madison Heights, Michigan in 1961.

The family became member of the First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak in 1966 where they found a welcoming congregation, outstanding spiritual guidance, and participation in the music program. Monte expressed his love of vocal music as a member of the Chancel Choir and Kingsmen Choir. Monte and Barbara cherished their time with other members of the congregation, particularly their friends in the 5 Fs Group and Lunch Bunch.

Monte first engagement in the community of Madison Heights, started with participation in PTA activities at Edmonson Elementary School. It continued with enthusiastic vigor in the Frantic Capers productions to raise scholarship funds and more than a decade as a volunteer Assistant Coach of the Lamphere High School wrestling team. He was proud to be a member of the Lamphere "family" of volunteers and employees.

Monte enjoyed his civic participation in the community as a Madison Heights Councilman and Mayor, followed by service as a State Representative in Lansing, Michigan. He treasured his interaction with the city's residents, committee members, administrators and employees.

The members and leaders of the city's civic and social groups held a special place in his heart. He often spoke of the fine people he interacted with from the Intermediate Women's Club, Jaycees, Lions Club, Kiwanis, youth sports programs, Scout troops and so many more.

Monte's recreational pursuits in his younger days included regular tennis matches with neighbors, and golfing with friends in his later years. He also enjoyed his time with friends and family up north as a member of Canada Creek Ranch.

In lieu of flowers, friends who would like to make a memorial donation may consider one of these recipient organizations.

The First Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak for the music program, 529 Hendrie Blvd. Royal Oak, Michigan 48067.

The Lamphere Schools for the scholarship fund, 31201 Dorchester, Madison Heights, Michigan 48071.

MH Intermediate Women's Club for the MH Memorial Day Parade,30149 Westwood, Madison Heights, Michigan. 48071