Gerald Douglas Pahel

Jerry was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 9, 1946, to Kenneth and Mildrid Pahel. He worked at the Chrysler Tank Plant in Warren, Michigan until his retirement.

Throughout his life, Jerry had an adventurous spirit, moving to California at the age of 20. The following decade he traveled much of the country with his son Bill and visited Europe.

Jerry was a giver of his time, friendship, and his love. He was an active participant in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Organization, the Make a Wish Foundation, and the Rodeheaver Boys Ranch helping neglected children. He also was an active leader in Sea Scouts, where he met and mentored Brian Cylkowski, whom he remained close to throughout his life.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth, his mother, Mildred, his brother Larry, and his sisters, Garnet and Debra. He is survived by his son Bill, grandsons Logan and Sean, goddaughter Cheryl, nieces Stephanie, Renee, and Karen, cousin Danny, Brian, and other family members.

The family won’t be holding a service.

He will be remembered for his generosity, imagination, and his ability to fool you with a tall tale, even when you knew to be on guard.

He left these written words “The only day worth claiming is a day in which you do something for someone who will never be able to repay you.”