Jerry H. McKay

Jerry Hill McKay, 78, died Thursday, February 2, 2017 at University Hospital, Ann Arbor. He was born on November 27, 1938 and grew up in Charlotte, MI, Jerry was predeceased by his parents Norman B. McKay and Ila M. Hill McKay. He is survived by his wife, Melinda, and children Douglas McKay (Susan), Charles McKay (Dana) and Karen McKay. He was stepdad to Rob Hampton (Tess) and Sarah Estigoy. A brother, Dick McKay (Nancy) also survives. His adored grandchildren are Nathan (Laura), Dan, Lucas, Mackenzie, Kylah, Logan, Cody and Hailey.

Jerry graduated from Michigan State University with a BS in Math. He spent his business career at IBM becoming a senior systems engineer. A second career as a wood lathe artist displayed his products in galleries and art fairs around the country.

In retirement, Jerry had two passions: creating family fun and serving his church and community. He and his sons finished a lake house up north where family and friends enjoyed our wonderful Michigan outdoors. He drove his toddler grandchildren around in the garden tractor cart. He hosted holiday gatherings at the backyard pool. Surplus from his extensive vegetable garden went to a local food pantry.

He construction-managed the builders and led a team of volunteers who did finishing work on a large church addition project. Jerry was the immediate past president of Rebuilding Together Oakland County, which repairs homes for low income elderly and disabled. During his tenure, the number of projects and volunteers grew exponentially.

Memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m., Thursday, February 9, 2017 at Muehlig Funeral Chapel, 403 South Fourth Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.

The Memorial Service will begin at 1:00 p.m., Friday, February 10, 2017 at First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor, 4001 Ann Arbor-Saline Road (at West Ellsworth), Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite charity or cause.

Please share a memory of Jerry with his family at his online guestbook.