Gerald Walter Szymczak, age 83 of Warren, passed away Thursday, May 6, 2021 at home. He was born March 11, 1938 in Detroit, son of the late Walter John and the late Caroline Barbara (nee: Mroczkowski) Szymczak.
Known more affectionately by all as “Jerry,” his life was magically and wonderfully changed the day he met the love of his life, Geraldine. The two lovebirds were blessed to share almost 50 years together, until her passing in November last year (2020). A wonderful marriage with a blended family, and a life awash with love to fill an ocean,…Jerry was on top of the world.
For his career path, Jerry chose to dip his toes in the pool of the automotive world where his skill sets and talents were eagerly snatched up by the folks at the Chrysler Corporation. Serving for over 35 years with esteemed pride and dedication as a Mechanical Engineer, Jerry brought much to the table in supporting the efforts and output of the iconic brand that traveled the many roads throughout our nation. He loved what he did and who he did it for, right up to the day he decided it was time to enter the world of the retired. With satisfaction for the work he had extended to the automotive giant, he departed with his head held high for a job well done.
Jerry was always a lover of the outdoors and enjoyed each opportunity he was afforded in exchanging the concrete jungle for a bit of the Pure Michigan experience. Getting back to nature is a refreshing blast of reality, and nobody knew this more than Jerry. In his younger years, the outdoors called his name each year when hunting season arrived. Like many Michiganders out there, Jerry enjoyed the whole hunting experience and the pleasures of sharing it with others, too. He loved gathering amid kindred spirits and being a part of all things traditional.
Speaking of gathering and kindred spirits, this little bio would be terribly remiss if not for mentioning one of his favorite pastimes,…his membership with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE), the Warren / Sterling Heights Lodge #2292. The Elks envelope a fraternal association of members who extend their care and compassion in many community efforts and outreaches, and Jerry’s personal character made for a perfect match with the organization. And not only was he a member, Jerry was honored to hold the orders’ highest office of Exalted Ruler from 1991-1992. He truly gave from the heart and was extremely influential to his many fellow Elk.
Perhaps not quite as formal nor fraternal, another membership Jerry was honored to share was that experienced with the American Polish Century Club in Sterling Heights. Being extremely proud of his Polish heritage, the club was the perfect venue to share in that kinship and enjoy the many friendships created along the way. And, of course, there was the annual Polish Festival that summoned his name and afforded Jerry the joy and pleasure of participating, as well as being a part of its success year-after-year.
As for some of his other notable pastimes, Jerry was a huge Classic Car fan. Not merely stemming from his time at Chrysler, but engrained in his automotive appreciation having grown up in the Motor Capital of the world,…there have been many “works of art” that have rolled off the lines at all the Big Three companies and Jerry loved them all. Many were easy attention-getters, and Jerry’s attention was easily grabbed. He also loved the sport of bowling, especially when he was competing in the work league play he so enjoyed. It’s one thing to share the work experience while on the job, but gather that same group around the ball return machine,…and now you’ve got a party. Always in search of that perfect “300 Game,”…there was just no beating the fun and frivolity of Bowling with the Buds!
Ahh…but the sport he loved the most was the game of golf. There’s nothing better than spending a sunny day on the links,…unless, of course, you’re sharing it all with a friend or two. Forever chasing that elusive Hole-in-One, Jerry never felt so free and unfettered as he did on the golf course,…especially at the “19th Hole.”
Renowned as a personable guy, with a big heart, and teeming with love and compassion for his fellow man, Jerry was as self-deprecating as he was selfless. He was always thinking of others and ready to help when needed. He was the kind of guy you could count on; Jerry was truly a man of his word. Perhaps that has much to do with why he was drawn to the memberships and fraternal relationships he shared,…he was simply good with people. His family will tell you the same.
A loving husband, father, grandfather and Uncle, Jerry leaves behind a wonderful legacy of love to be embraced with each reflection shared by those who were blessed to know this caring man. He touched countless hearts and souls in his journey through life and helped to mold many lives for good. He was truly unique and genuine, and will be missed and loved beyond expression.
Jerry was the beloved husband of the late Geraldine. Dear father of Michael Milch, Malaine Kolonick, and the late James Milch. Loving grandfather of 2, and great-grandfather of 1. Cherished uncle of Debbie & Tom Rottmann and Mark & Jill Skeen.
Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the D,S, Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.
Please share memories of Jerry at his guest book below.
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