Jerald "Jerry" Ronald Boettcher

Jerald Ronald Boettcher, age 81 of Warren, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 27, 2021 in the company and compassion of his loving family. He was born February 11, 1940 in Warren, son of the late William and the late Mince (nee: Schalk) Boettcher.

From high school graduate to his ultimate achievement of becoming an accomplished draftsman, Jerry was most proud of the years he spent with General Motors being a part of the team that helped imagine, sculpt, and design the plans that led to the production of many of GM’s incredible vehicles over the years. Jerry’s work was exacting, detailed, and called upon much from his mental abilities,…which we all know can be immensely demanding. But Jerry’s secret was in managing it all with a bit of balance in life. Basically, the equation looked something like,…Work + Fun =  Happy Jerry.

So when it came to infusing a bit of fun into the picture, Jerry would often grab his angling equipment and head to one of his favorite fishing holes to exercise his skillful experiences, (and try his luck), in the hopes of snagging “The Big One.” Between each bite on the line and watching that bobber take a dive, fishing is one of those sports that affords the angler a wonderful mix of peacefulness & serenity,…and Jerry knew that feeling well. He was also quite fond of the softer sports of  Golf and Bowling, both of which offered Jerry the welcomed aspect of sharing each venue with others. It’s one thing to have fun, but when that fun is multiplied through the inclusion of friendly competition,…now it’s a Party! Whether he was enjoying a sunny day on the links, or an afternoon down at the alley’s, Jerry simply found great entertainment value in making memories with friends and loved ones.

Jerry also loved tinkering around the house. Whether it was out in the garage working on a project, or out in the garden putting his green thumb to work, it seemed that Jerry’s work was never done,…but this was all “comforting labor” that called upon more from his heart than his head. Speaking of tinkering out in the garage, there was another garage that called Jerry’s name, Andy’s Marathon Station, where he loved congregating with the boys and sharing a little “Guy Time” to bolster both the machismo & friendship factors in life. They were a close bunch of men who truly appreciated each other’s company and camaraderie.

Many will remember, as well, how much Jerry loved to hunt,…especially when it came to his favorite, bow hunting. Like many Michigander’s, the joys of hunting were not lost on Jerry as he lived for the season and every opportunity he was afforded in getting back to nature and enjoying his love of the outdoors.  For many years, one of Jerry’s greatest joys in life was found each time he hopped in the car to embark on another trip to the family’s property up north, with part of that time being shared with his fellow Hunt Club members, “The Lucky 8.” It was Jerry’s little slice of Heaven here on earth. There was just something de-stressing and relieving about exchanging the concrete jungle for a taste of “Pure Michigan,” and Jerry ate it up!  

A loving husband, father and grandfather, Jerry leaves behind his beautiful bride of 55 years, Danielle,…whom, by the way, he always called “Dan.” They exchanged their vows on October 30, 1965 at St. Clements Catholic Church in Center Line. Along with the rest of his loving family, Jerry leaves behind a wonderful legacy of love and passion that was enhanced by those precious souls with whom he was blessed to share his life’s journey. Jerry spent a lifetime making those cherished moments with loved ones and friends, may they serve to be a warm remembrance with each reflection shared. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.  

Jerald was the beloved husband of Danielle. Dearest father of Jerald II (Nicole) Boettcher, Roxanne Boettcher, Todd Boettcher, and Nicole “Nikki” (Glen) Skinner. Loving grandfather of Gage, Gavin and Grier Skinner, and Alaina and Liam Boettcher. Brother of the late William Boettcher, and the late June Armentrout. Brother-in-law of John (Glenna) Washinski, and the late twins, Thomas & Harold Washinski.

A Memorial Visitation for Jerald will be held on Wednesday, July 7th from 10:00 am-1:00 pm, with a 12:00 pm Memorial Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren.

Memorial donations, in Jerald’s memory, may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association, 25200Telegraph Road, Suite 100, Southfield, Michigan 48033. (www.alz.org)

Please share memories of Jerald at his guest book below.