On June 14, 2024, Gerald “Jerry” Batchelor, 80, entered through the gates of Heaven peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.
In Jerry’s early years he was a shy young man that found confidence by taking up and playing the trumpet in the middle school band. With that confidence, he was able to flourish as a sales rep and enter early retirement. He found himself doing all the things he loved and exploring new interests during his time as a retiree. He had a fantastic sense of humor and having been born on April Fool’s Day in 1944, it’s no surprise he was a jokester at heart and always knew how to make someone smile. With the love of his life, his wife Joy of 29 years by his side, he found himself always busy and creating many memories along the way. He loved traveling to many countries, working in their yard, taking daily drives down Main Street Lowell to appreciate the beautiful town he called home for over 40 years. Jerry had a heart of gold that naturally led him to become an inspiration, mentor and role model to many people striving to live a sober and healthy life.
Jerry is preceded in death by his father, Gerald Batchelor Sr., mother, Marie Batchelor; brother, Ronnie Batchelor; son-in-law, Doug Vogt; daughter-in-law, Shawn Batchelor, father-in-law, Fortunato Ecarma Sr.; brothers-in-law, Fortunato Ecarma Jr., and Jonnifer Bruce Ecarma. He is survived by his adoring wife, Joy Batchelor; son, Mark Batchelor (Tammy Smith); daughter, Laurie Vogt; grandchildren, Stacey (Israel) Rosales, Amber (Pau)l Vandermeer, Britney (Matt) Altoft, Matthew Batchelor (Sarah McCarrick), Kelsey Vogt (Aaron Williams); great grandchildren, Gavin, Kaiden, Noah, Emmie, McKenna, Myah, Dax, Marlee, Bronx, Madelyn; mother-in-law, Enacolita Ecarma; brother, Ray (Kathy) Batchelor; sister, Judy (Ed) Batema; brother-in-law, Ranier Ecarma; sisters-in-law, Cheryl Ecarma, Reme Ecarma; nieces and nephews, Matt Batchelor, Kris (Dale) Bibbler, Brett (Candice) Batema, Renee Batema, Gypsy (Dan) Gosmeyer, Styx (Eurika) Ecarma & Cheyenne Ranee. He will be greatly missed by his extended family and friends in the Philippines.
Family will greet friends and relatives from 2-4pm and 6-8pm on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at Roth-Gerst Funeral Home, 305 N. Hudson Lowell, MI 49331. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11am on Friday, June 28, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 402 Amity St. SE, Lowell, MI 49331, with visitation one hour prior. Rev. Michael Goodwin presiding. Interment Sunset Memorial Gardens, Ionia, Michigan.
One Response
Jerry was a true gem!
I always loved his genuine loving warmth and kindness. He had a special way to make you feel special and make you laugh. I am grateful to have been able to enjoy Jerry’s company. Now you are dancing with Shawnee! I’m sure she’s showing you all kinds of things starting with the beautiful gardens. Be at peace!