Gerald I. Maas

Died April 17, 2011, at Allegiance Health, Jackson, MI. Dr. Maas was an iconic figure who opened his private medical practice in Jackson in 1961 and served the community for more than 30 years. Surviving are his cherished wife of 26 years, Karen, plus many other beloved relatives: brother Marlin (Jackie) Maas, Park Ridge, IL; sisters Aline (Norbert) Harz, Springfield, MO and Ellyn (the late Walter) Seifried, Scottsdale, AZ; mother-in-law Alice Maurer; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; many nieces and nephews. He was born March 21, 1923, in Ladysmith, WI and attended Wisconsin public schools. He earned a B.S. in Engineering from Ohio State followed by a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Illinois. After college, Dr. Maas served our country from 1943-1960 as an Air Force physician. He practiced at Orly Hospital in Paris and was Chief of Staff at Hickam Air Force Base near Honolulu. In Jackson, his wide-ranging interests led him to groups such as the Jackson Country Club, Garden Lovers Club, Arbor Grove Congregational’s Breakfast Conversations, Nomads Travel, Ella Sharp Museum and Winterset Dance. He enjoyed traveling, Indy 500 racing, gardening, skiing, golfing, reading, history and relaxing at his Farwell Lake cottage with his wife and friends. He collected antique cars, clocks, Civil War memorabilia and walking canes. Dr. Maas made four medical missionary trips to Guatemala with Helps International and supported local organizations such as Baker College, Jackson Symphony Orchestra, Habitat for Humanity and Jackson Community College. Dr. Maas led a full and compelling life, had a love and respect for nature, and believed in Christ-like ways. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Arbor Grove, 2621 McCain Rd, Jackson. The family will receive visitors at the church at 10 a.m. Memorial donations may go to Project Access, Ella Sharp Museum, Jackson Symphony Orchestra or a charity of choice.

Chas. J. Burden & Son Funeral Home

1806 E. Michigan Avenue

Jackson, MI 49202

(517) 784-3104