Gerald M. Gurtzweiler

Gerald M. “Gerry” Gurtzweiler, age 87,of Holland, Ohio died Thursday, January 31, 2013 at Ebeid Hospice surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 7, 1925 in Petersburg, Michigan to Alfred and Hazel (Reau) Gurtzweiler and on May 15, 1948 he married Louise M. Tignanelli in Detroit, Michigan. Gerry owned and operated Gerry’s IGA in Delta for over 50 years before retiring in 1986. He was a member of American Legion Post #373 Delta and the Fraternal Order of Eagles Delta Aerie #2597.

As an 82nd Airborne Paratrooper during WWII, Gerry earned a Purple Heart for a shrapnel wound received at the Battle of the Bulge. He was also the recipient of the African Middle East Campaign Medal, four bronze stars and one bronze arrowhead, a Militaire Willems Orde Holland and a World War II Victory Medal.

After his honorable discharge from serving his country, he became a member of the American Legion Drill Team called “The Staccatos” who were known for precision routine synchronization, winning several national championships in the 50’s.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Louise M. Gurtzweiler; son, Douglas J. (Trudy) Gurtzweiler; daughters, Debera J. (David) Serna and Jody L. (Russell) Szykowny as well as 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Gerry was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Hazel.

Friends will be received on Sunday, February 3, 2013 from 2-9:00 P.M. in Neville Funeral Home, Southwest Chapel, 7438 Airport Highway in Holland (419-865-8879) where funeral services will begin at the funeral home on Monday, February 4, 2013 at 9:15 A.M. and proceed to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Delta, Ohio. Those planning an expression of sympathy in Gerald’s name may do so to either American Legion Post #373 or to Ebeid Hospice.