Jerome Arthur DeSantis

Jerome A. DeSantis, age 65 of Holly, died Thursday, January 3, 2013 at the Genesys Regional Medical Center in Grand Blanc, Michigan.He was born on February 19, 1947 in Detroit, son of the late Jerome Dennis and Dolores (nee: Rayner) DeSantis.For over 20 years, many in the Macomb county area will remember Jerry for the special calling in his life as a Funeral Director in the family's business in Warren. Extending the utmost in care and compassion to the many families who called upon him in their time of need, Jerry possessed a servant's heart that touched countless lives during some very difficult times. After all those years of dedicated service to the community, he decided to change things up a bit by venturing down a new and different employment path. He was still serving the needs of the community, but now it was through his prowess as a painter. He started his own company, DeSantis Painting, which specialized in both commercial and residential contracting. When he wasn't working, Jerry (or more affectionately known to many as J.D.) enjoyed an eclectic array of hobbies and pastimes,...many of which were centered around his love for the outdoors. From a sunny day on the golf course, to his love of fishing (both fresh water and through the ice), to taming the waves on his boat or meandering the waters in a kayak, Jerry found great enjoyment in the blessings of the Great Lakes state. And like many Michiganders who are blessed to have an escape haven up north, Jerry truly enjoyed his home away from home at the family's cottage up at Higgins Lake. It offered him the perfect combination of splendor and serenity away from the concrete jungle. Perhaps one of the most special memories his children recall of their cottage getaways with Dad are the wonderful walks down to the local Dairy Queen where they would order their favorite ice cream treat, then sit and enjoy it while taking in the scenic delights surrounding them. It was always a special time for all,...filling both their bellies and their senses. Jerry was known for being quite the cook as well. He knew his way around the kitchen, and really created some magic when it came to his Italian cuisine. They were gourmet meals fit for a King, and Emeril Legassi had nothing on this guy. Talk about "Bam?" J.D.'s meals were Da Bomb! Another of Jerry's passions was found in the sport of Hockey. Not only did he enjoy watching the game, but was quite active in the sport in his younger years as well. He was also fond of reading, and often enjoyed regaling family and friends through his storytelling. Most of the time this meant instilling a great deal of laughter to his listening audience, something that never got old. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor, a trait that will be tremendously missed by the absence of his comedic presence. Yet of all the things that brought him joy and sweet release, nothing could match the love he held for his family. Spending time with his kids meant the world to him,...and he was especially proud and delighted with his new grandson, Reale. The pictures that accompany this obituary speak for themselves of what a doting Grandpa he truly was with his new, little treasure. For the rest of his family and friends who were blessed to enjoy Jerry's presence and laughter over the years, the memories they created together will forever be a warm and provoking reflection with each remembrance shared. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.Beloved father of Jay (Debbie), Meghan DeSantis, and the late Matthew. Dearest son of Dolores (the late J. Dennis) DeSantis. Loving grandfather of Reale Julian. Brother of Mary (Bill) Stockwell, Thomas, John, Denise DeSantis-Scheff, and the late Laurie. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, former wife, Sharon (nee: Donahue) DeSantis, and loving friend, Mary Ellen. Visitation for Jerry will be held on Sunday, January 6th from 3-9pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road). His Funeral Service will be conducted on Monday, 11:00am at the funeral home. Officiating the service will be Pastor Jim Combs.Memorial donations are welcomed to the American Cancer Society, 20450 Civic Center Drive, Southfield, MI 48076, or The River Church, 8393 E. Holly Road, Holly, MI 48442.Please share memories of Jerry at his memory book.