Jerry Randall Draper

Jerry Randall Draper Sr. of Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home with his treasured wife and family by his side, on Sunday, June 25, 2023. He was 86 years old. Jerry Randall Draper Sr. was born on December 20, 1936, in Flint, Michigan, to the late Amos and Mary (Kollar) Draper. He was a graduate of St. Matthew High School in Flint, Michigan. Shortly after graduation, Jerry enlisted in the United States Air Force honorably serving his country from 1957 to 1961. Upon his return, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan. He met the love of his life, Ellen Marie Ervin, while on a blind date at the local hockey rink where Jerry was playing. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on August 3, 1963; she survives him. Jerry was employed with the Dow Chemical Company as an executive pilot. He retired in 1993 after 25 years of loyal and dedicated service. His little piece of heaven, and the role of his lifetime, was to be the most loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He faithfully attended Saginaw First Church of the Nazarene with his wife, Ellen. Jerry enjoyed playing hockey and watching Detroit Red Wings hockey and University of Michigan football. A talented artist, he would often refer to himself as a "novice painter." He was an avid genealogist passionate about family research. He took the trip of a lifetime with his mother and late Uncle John Kollar, back to the old country, Czechoslovakia, to meet extended family members and visit family towns and villages. A gentleman by every sense of the word, he will forever be remembered for his wisdom and intellect, for being a kind, gentle, and modest spirit, and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories.

Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Ellen Marie Draper of Saginaw; two daughters and a son: Kelley (Steve) Cerny, Jerry (Claudia) Draper Jr., Kathy (Ron) Draper-Morgan; five grandchildren: Morgan (James Graham) Cerny, Trenton Cerny, Serena Draper, Matt Draper, and Kyle Draper. Also surviving are many cousins, extended family, and friends.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire staff of Amara Hospice for all the love and care they provided to Jerry and the family.

A private funeral service will take place on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at the W. L. Case & Company Funeral Chapel, 4480 Mackinaw Road. Pastor John Obrecht will officiate with Military Honors following under the auspices of the United States Air Force and American Legion Post 22. Burial will take place at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Flint, Michigan. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Saginaw First Church of the Nazarene or a charity of the donor's choice. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.casefuneralhome.com.