He was a longtime member of the First Lutheran Church of Suttons Bay. His faith was central to him and something he carried with him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Josephine Olmsted, and his son, Bruce Olmsted. He is survived by daughter Collette (Dane) Blanchard, son Chris (Tina) Olmsted, and three grandchildren; Mackenzie Olmsted, Shane Olmsted and Finnegan Blanchard.

Jerry was a man who found joy in many things, most of all his dogs. He loved his dogs and enjoyed taking them along for drives around Leelanau County. He loved watching old Western movies, music, good food, local craft beer, and his sweets.

He was a passionate collector and enthusiast. He loved his Harley-Davidson motorcycles, his collector cars, and his guns. He enjoyed spending time at the Cedar Rod and Gun Club. He was also a member of the Traverse City Harley-Davidson group, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and the Sons of Norway in Suttons Bay.

But perhaps what Jerry loved most was people. He had a great sense of humor, loved to tell stories, and genuinely enjoyed connecting with people. Jerry will be remembered for his big heart, his quick humor, his love of family, his faith, his stories, and his ability to find something to enjoy wherever life took him.

A Memorial Service honoring Jerry will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St. Traverse City. Family will welcome visitors an hour prior to the service starting at 10:00 am. For those not able to attend, the service will be livestreamed and can be viewed in real time, or after the fact, on the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home YouTube page. Interment will be at the Lutheran Cemetery in Suttons Bay, MI. To leave a message for the family, please visit www. reynolds-jonkhoff.com.