Obituary: Jerry Spencer, 85, of Hart.
Jerry Gene Spencer, 85, passed away at his home with his family close by in Hart, Michigan, Wednesday, March 14, 2018, following a long health related battle.
Jerry was born April 9, 1932 in Hart to Eugene and Leona (McKee) Spencer. Jerry graduated from Hart High School in 1950 and went on to Michigan State University, graduating in 1955 with a degree in agricultural mechanics. Jerry married the girl next door, Judy (Pangburn) Spencer on May 9, 1959 at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church in Hart. Jerry and Judy enjoyed many adventures together including working the family farm, traveling, spending time with family and friends and anything to do with MSU sports.
He served the west Michigan fruit growers as a chemical consultant and salesperson for 28 years. Jerry was an icon in the civic community of not only Hart, but Oceana County. Jerry was a long standing member of the Oceana County Board of Commissioners, City of Hart Planning Commission, Oceana County Republican Party and the Lions Club of Hart. Jerry was actively involved in the Oceana County Fair serving as the treasurer for 52 years. He was the first president of the MSU alumni club of Oceana County as well as the National MSU Alumni Board. Jerry will be remembered for his smiling face and good humored nature. He was instrumental in the development of the Hart Industrial Park. Jerry wanted to keep jobs in Hart by providing a place for businesses to come.
Jerry is survived by his wife Judy of 58 years; children, Jenny (Michael) Purdy, Jeff (Eva) Spencer, Joany (John) Small; beloved grandchildren, Ryan, Spencer, Corry, Jason (Torie), Cassy, Michaela, Maria, Elizabeth; step grandchildren Cody (Bailey), Cassie; great grandchildren, Mackenzie, Hayden, Skylar, Ry, Zwade.
He was preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Leona Spencer.
Visitation will be held Sunday, March 18, 2018 at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service-King-Hart Chapel, 2370 N. 72nd Avenue, Hart, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., with a praying of the Rosary at 5:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Monday, March 19, 2018 at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church in Hart, with a luncheon to follow.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Gregory’s Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, Lions Club of Hart, Oceana County Community Foundation – MSU Scholarship.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.