Gerald James Partridge

Gerald (Jerry) James Partridge, resident of Grosse Pointe Park for over 42 years, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2024 after fighting cancer for two decades. He lived life to its fullest for just over 80 years.

Jerry was born in Detroit, Michigan on July 9, 1944, first born of the late Harry and Edna (Hasse) Partridge. He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Frances and his sister Cindy. Jerry is survived by his cherished children Jennifer (David Ballinger), Scott (Sarah), grandchildren Alexandra, Catherine, and Theodore, siblings Dennis (Pamela), Harry (Jan), and Patricia (John Arnold), and brother-in-law Joseph Boner.

Jerry was united in marriage to Frances (Fran) Boner on July 2, 1966, proposing only three weeks after being introduced. He received a B.A. in Business Administration from Wayne State University in 1968 and was the first member of his family to graduate from college. Jerry then served his country faithfully in Vietnam as an Army Sergeant of Finance, discharged in 1971. Upon his return he embarked on a successful sales and marketing career. Jerry and Fran lived in multiple places, returning to Grosse Pointe Park to be closer to family and friends.

Jerry's dedication to mastering complex pursuits and his commitment to making a positive impact on others' lives was inspiring. His love of flying led him to earn pilot certifications for single and multi-engine propeller aircraft. An avid sailor, Jerry contributed to Mackinac wins in 2004 (Avatar) and 2011 (Freedom), serving as Commodore of the Grosse Pointe Sail Club and coach of the Grosse Pointe South Sailing Team. Both he and Fran were active members of St. James Lutheran Church, the Grosse Pointe Sail Club, and volunteered for Beaumont Grosse Pointe Hospital. More recently, Jerry immersed himself in chorale performance, singing in the St. James Lutheran Church Chancel Choir, the Fort Street Chorale, and directing the Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe Choir.

Jerry was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, and trusted friend. He has made an indelible mark on so many lives and will be forever loved and missed.

Visitation at A. H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Avenue, Grosse Pointe Woods, Saturday, October 26, 3-6 pm. Viewing at St. James Lutheran Church, 170 McMillan, Grosse Pointe Farms, Sunday, October 27, 1 pm, followed by a funeral service at 1:30 pm.