Gerald L. Giffin (Gerry), age 95, passed away January 12, 2024 with loved ones by his side in Traverse City, Michigan. He was born on December 14, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Louise and Clifford Giffin.

Gerry married Eleanor Ketterman of Bedford, PA on November 12, 1949 and they had four children in Detroit, Chris, Mike, Mark and Cindy. They were blessed to have had 74 years of a wonderful life together.

An automotive engineer at Chrysler Corp, Gerry retired in 1987, for 21 years at Highland Park and 20 years at the Chrysler Proving Grounds in Chelsea, Michigan. He worked on the impact simulator, testing seatbelts and airbags.

In 1957, they bought property on Little Glen Lake where together they cleared the land and built a summer home. After his retirement they built another home on the property where they lived for 36 years. They travelled the country often, visiting relatives and friends.

Gerry was a fine craftsman in both stained glass and woodworking. He was treasurer of the Noontiders Men’s Club, served on the board of Glen Lake Community Library and was a member of The Dunes Golf Course.

Gerry was preceded in death by his brother, David and son, Michael, who passed away from pancreatic cancer two weeks prior to Gerry’s death.

He is survived by his wife, Ellie and three children, Chris Kelly (Paul) of Traverse City, Mark Giffin (Jane) of Gladwin, MI, Cindy Wingen (Ed) of Issaquah, WA, daughter in law Karen Giffin of San Diego, CA, along with 13 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren. Gerry was a kind and loving father and husband, gentle and supportive. Most important was always love of family. He is sorely missed and forever in our hearts. The family thanks the staff of Orchard Creek Skilled Nursing and Heartland Hospice for their two weeks of loving care. According to Gerry’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Gerry’s family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.