Gerald Jerry Van Lew

Gerald (Jerry) Van Lew Formerly of Alpena, Michigan Died Saturday, April 27, 2013. Age 76 years. Jerry was born May 25, 1936 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the son of the late Thomas and Edith (Burnham) Van Lew. While going to school in Grand Rapids, he met and married his high school sweet heart, Roberta (Bobbie) Clouse. They were married July 18, 1953, in Howell, Indiana. She survives him. At the age of 18 years, he began his career with the Michigan State Highway Department (MDOT). He retired as Superintendant of Signs and Signals with 42 years of service. After retirement they both settled in their cabin retreat, Downs Camp, homesteaded established in 1939, in the Upper Peninsula, near Sidnaw, Michigan. They also spent winters in Clermont, Florida. Jerry was truly a "jack of all trades," master carpenter, decoy wood carver, hockey and tennis player. He had a great love for the out-of-doors, was an avid hunter and fisherman. He always had a good story from Deer Camp. Jerry always had an infectious smile for everyone. He was a great man that touched many lives and was loved by so many. Jerry will be greatly missed. "Fish On!" Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Bobbie Van Lew, three daughters, a son and their spouses, Carol and James Furbush, Saginaw, MI; Cindy and William Steed, Wixom, MI; Thomas and Yoonmi Van Lew, High Point, NC; Carrie Lee Van Lew, Saginaw, MI; nine grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; a sister, Dorothy McClure, Grand Rapids, MI. A celebration of Jerry's life with family and friends will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 30, 2013, at New Life Christian Fellowship, 6115 Shattuck Rd. Saginaw, MI. Rev. Jeff Ralph will officiate. Friends may visit with family from 10:00 a.m. Tuesday until the time of the memorial celebration. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the Alzheimer's Association or the Special Olympics. www.casefuneralhome.com

Funeral Home:
W. L. Case and Company Mackinaw Funeral Chapel
4480 Mackinaw Road
Saginaw, MI
US 48603