Gerald "Jerry" Joseph Zelenick

Jerry was born on August 8, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, to his beloved parents, Joseph and Mary Zelenick. He grew up in Detroit, where he began to develop the creativity and work ethic that would define his life.

Jerry was the devoted husband of Barbara for 68 wonderful years, sharing a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. Together, they built a beautiful family and created cherished memories, including traveling the world and enjoying 17 cruises over the years.

He was a loving father to Susan (Charlie) DeMarco, Cynthia (Ken) Coblentz, and Jeffrey (LeAnn) Zelenick. Jerry was a proud and cherished grandfather to Danielle, Nicole, Maxim (Lee), Logan, Paige, Grant, and Conner, and a devoted great-grandfather to Declan and Darlah.

Jerry dedicated 30 years of his professional life to Ford Motor Company, where he worked as a Technical Illustrator. His artistic talents and attention to detail were evident not only in his career but also in his many hobbies. He had a passion for art, enjoyed painting on a variety of mediums, and delighted in crafting wooden toys for children, always finding joy in creating something meaningful for others.

Jerry was a longtime parishioner of St. Colette Catholic Church in Livonia, where he found great joy in singing in the Resurrection Choir. His warm spirit, kindness, and gentle presence touched all who knew him.

Jerry will be remembered for his creativity, devotion to family, and the love he shared so freely. He was truly loved by many and will be deeply missed by all whose lives he enriched.

His legacy of love, faith, and artistry will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

A memorial mass will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 11am (gathering at 10:30am) at St.Colette Catholic Church-Livonia.